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Patrols stepped up as drugs swoop nets 13

Bethan Dorsett
20/12/2006

A MAJOR police swoop has led to the arrests of 13 suspected drug dealers.

Acting on intelligence gathered by community support officers and other agencies, a team of officers raided homes of alleged troublemakers in Falinge.

They have since questioned the suspects about various offences, including the possession of drugs with intent to supply, cruelty to animals, breach of bail conditions and theft from vehicles.

The suspects have been bailed, but, in the meantime, police have stepped up patrols in the area to reassure the public and prevent further offences.

Chief Inspector John Martin, who helped lead the operation, said: "These excellent results show our commitment to dealing with all forms of anti-social behaviour and crimes that affect local communities.

"It also demonstrates our commitment to working with residents to tackle crime and disorder and we will continue to do so to reduce crime levels even further."

• A mobile police station toured Rochdale last week to give residents an opportunity to meet and get to know their local police community support officers

The station was staffed by PCSOs who work in the Turf Hill, Kirkholt and Castleton areas.

Senior police officers believe PCSOs play a crucial role in gathering intelligence about criminal activity by forging close links with residents groups, community leaders and local people.