A DRUGS raid has been carried out by police today (Wednesday), and a drugs closure notice served at an address in Stevenage. The early morning raid at a property in Pankhurst Crescent took place at about 8am, as part of National Tackling Drugs Week. A tea

A DRUGS raid has been carried out by police today (Wednesday), and a drugs closure notice served at an address in Stevenage.

The early morning raid at a property in Pankhurst Crescent took place at about 8am, as part of National Tackling Drugs Week.

A team of police officers and a police dog trained to sniff out drugs searched the property.

Although no drugs were found on this occasion, and no arrests made, a drugs closure notice was put in place on the grounds of information already known to police.

If the notice is sanctioned when the female tenant appears at Stevenage Magistrates Court tomorrow (Thursday), the property will be immediately boarded up.

For three months it will be a criminal offence for anyone other than a person authorised by the police to enter the premises, which is managed by Stevenage Homes.

PC Duncan McCormick, from the Tactical Team based at Stevenage Police Station, led the operation and said: "The property was issued with the closure notice after we had evidence to suggest that drugs were being used there and that there were numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour.

"We will not allow those who use drugs to affect the quality of life for law-abiding citizens in Stevenage.

"We are committed to targeting those individuals involved in drug crime and I hope the success of this operation sends a clear message to others that we will use every power possible to stop drug crime.

"I would like to take this opportunity to encourage any resident in Stevenage who has concerns that people living near them are dealing or using drugs or causing a nuisance and disorder to contact us. Your call counts and information you provide could mean offenders being brought to justice."

If anyone has any information about where drug dealing is taking place, they are urged to contact the Stevenage Neighbourhood Team on 0845 3300 222. Alternatively call Crimestoppers, the independent charity, anonymously on 0800 555111.

You do not have to give your name and you could be entitled to a cash reward.