Four arrested and 26 people stopped after police dog searches people for drugs in city centre

dog,handler,pc,tony,chambers,pd,ross,dog,notts,nottingham,nottinghamshire,police
Dog handler PC Tony Chambers with PD Ross

Four people were arrested and three reported for summons after police launched an operation to target drug use or dealing in the city centre using a dog to identify suspects at the weekend.

A further 11 people were issued with dispersal orders meaning they had to leave the city during the operation on Saturday (May 19) night.

A total of 26 people were stopped and searched as part of the operation which came during a busy evening in the city centre following the Royal wedding, the FA Cup final and sunny weather.

Offences included suspicion of possession of cocaine, cannabis and mamba and no weapons were recovered.

The aim of the operation is to tackle drugs and associated violence, disorder and antisocial behaviour in the evening and night time economy.

Chief Inspector Donna Lawton said: “Making people feel safe in our city centre means addressing the drivers of violence, including the misuse of drink and drugs.

“The City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team and our partners in Community Protection are pleased to introduce this operation as a key partnership initiative to reduce the likelihood of being a victim of violence in the city.”

Officers worked closely with Operational Support dog handlers to identify those dealing or in possession of drugs.

Venues were also issued with cocaine torches to ensure drugs did not enter their premises.

For those arrested, drug treatment will be provided by the Criminal Justice Intervention Team in the custody suite.

Inspector Anwaar Ahmed said: “I would like to thank all those involved in the operation – Nottinghamshire Police, Nottingham Crime & Drugs Partnership, Nottingham City Council and the Business Improvement District as well as treatment providers.

“The scheme works closely with city centre venues that are included in Nottingham’s Business Improvement District.”