Drug and gun crackdown success

A POLICE operation to tackle drug and gun crime in Ipswich has had a successful first year.Operation Academy, which was launched last January to deal with the increased threat posed by London drug dealers who carry weapons, has seen illegal drugs worth £200,000 taken off the streets.

A POLICE operation to tackle drug and gun crime in Ipswich has had a successful first year.

Operation Academy, which was launched last January to deal with the increased threat posed by London drug dealers who carry weapons, has seen illegal drugs worth £200,000 taken off the streets.

Large amounts of heroin, crack and other substances have been seized, and weapons ranging from knives to pistols, numerous mobile phones and cars were also taken by police.

Det Ch Insp Mark Jepson, crime manager for Ipswich, said: “We have a proactive drugs team here in Ipswich and they work hard to reduce the flow of drugs into and around the town. I am pleased with the results we have achieved so far but am disappointed dealers still come to Ipswich.

Since the operation began, 180 offences have been recorded and 297 people arrested.

Det Ch Insp Jepson added: “We rely very heavily on information from the public, and are interested to hear from people who have noticed increased activity around their neighbouring properties, people hanging around in the street, or acting suspiciously. In some circumstances information we receive can lead to crackhouse closure orders being granted, meaning people who cause misery to those living around them will be evicted and prohibited from returning.”

Anyone who has concerns about drug dealing taking place in their area or who sees suspicious activity should call the Drugs Hotline on 0800 253253 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.