Christmas crime crackdown begins with two Northampton drugs raids

Two houses believed to be involved in drug activity were raided yesterday (Saturday) as police launched a Christmas serious and organised (SOC) crime crackdown.

Officers from the Northampton Neighbourhood Team forced their way into the properties in Northampton as part of the 12-day campaign.

They then searched the homes in Elysium Terrace, Semilong, and Hunters Close, Kingsthorpe, although no arrests were made.

Sergeant Beth Curlett, from the Northampton Neighbourhood Team, said: “Northamptonshire Police is dedicated to targeting those who commit serious crimes for financial gain. Serious Organised Crime affects our communities on a daily basis and we are seeing an increase in SOC related incidents.

“It is estimated that SOC costs the UK £37bn annually. The types of crime we see here in Northamptonshire are class A and B drug dealing, child criminal exploitation, human trafficking and money laundering.

“During our First Day of Christmas operation, we conducted two Misuse of Drugs Act warrants targeting the supply of class A drugs in and around Northampton. These are two of the many warrants we have conducted recently and we will continue to disrupt and visit those who believe it is acceptable to cause misery in our communities.

"Enforcement is imperative to bringing offenders to justice and to provide reassurance to our residents that we act upon the intelligence passed to us.”

Officers will continue to work in the area after concerns were raised by the local community.

Sgt Curlett added: “Following yesterday’s warrants, local officers conducted patrols in the areas and local residents will have received a letter informing them what we have done and why, along with details of how they can report concerns to the police, or Crimestoppers anonymously.

“As well as enforcement around this crime type, where vulnerability is identified, we will also provide support for those who may be at risk of harm and make referrals to the appropriate safeguarding agencies.”