Ten arrested in Operation Drive

 

2 April 09

 

POLICE in Preston have so far arrested 10 people as part of Operation Drive, the crackdown on organised crime groups in the city.

The operation, which began on Monday is a high impact drugs initiative targeting Class A drug dealers within the city. The warrants being executed are linked to group members who, because of their illegal activity, have a significant impact on the community and the lives of local residents.

Detective Inspector Ian Dawson from Preston police, said: “The arrests so far, I believe, should provide significant reassurance to the community in the police’s response to the activities of organised crime groups in the area who deal drugs and commit acquisitive criminality.

“Today, PACT members and community leaders have been out in the communities with police and have responded to community intelligence, particularly in the Tanterton area, which has led to the arrest of three individuals for drugs related offences. The Police will continue to use all available tactics and work together with partner agencies to significantly impact on any individuals involved in organised crime.”

In total 10 people have been arrested, and three people charged with drugs related offences since the operation began.

The three men charged are; Jamie Evans, 27, of Chaddock Street, Avenham has been charged with possession of class B drugs and has been bailed.  Mohammed Baig, 21 of New Hall Lane, Ribbleton was arrested on Tuesday has been charged with possession of class A controlled drugs and bailed. A 16 year old male from Preston, who cannot be identified for legal reasons has also been charged with possession of class A controlled drugs and bailed.

A further three men from Tanterton aged 21,21 and 22 and one 24 year old man from Fulwood have been cautioned for drugs related offences, one person aged 16 from Preston has been released on bail and two people from Preston aged 38 and 15 have been released no charge.