Police continue to target Wellingborough gang crime

A Wellingborough man has been arrested after police found Class A drugs as they continue to tackle gang and drug crime in the town.

Northamptonshire Police intensified their operations in the town after a number of incidents in September were linked to gang crime and drug turf wars.

Yesterday (Wednesday, October 14), a 35-year-old man was arrested after police executed a warrant in The Crescent, Wellingborough, and found a quantity of Class A drugs.

Det Supt Lee McBride, who leads the serious and organised crime team, said: "Everyone has the right to feel safe in their homes and in their local areas, and when this right is threatened by a small minority, we will not stand for it.

"There were a number of incidents in Wellingborough last month which rightly concerned the local community, however since then, a lot of good work has taken place, resulting in a number of key arrests and charges."

In September there were incidents involving guns and knives which Supt Dennis Murray told the Northants Telegraphgangs were believed to be behind.

Since then, police have stepped up their presence in the town to tackle the issue and Det Supt McBride said: "Over 15 warrants have also been executed in the town and more are planned.

"A lot of these warrants have been secured due to information supplied by members of the public so I would really encourage people to continue reporting suspicious activity to us, as well as anyone they suspect to be involved in gangs, drug dealing or violent crime.

"Remember, we don't need to know who you are, just what you know."

Northants Police are also working to try and prevent young people getting involved with gangs.

Det Supt McBride said: "Finally, I would make an appeal to anyone who is on the periphery of a gang or anyone who is worried about a family member getting involved in one, to please let us help you.

"Trust me when I say that life in a gang may look glamourous and financially promising but the consequences can be devastating and the risks are not worth it.

"Too often we hear of young people seriously injured and even killed due to becoming involved in gang life. It is never too late to make a positive choice and we, alongside our partners, will help you to do that."

Anyone with information about criminal activity in Wellingborough that could help police is asked to contact Northamptonshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

If you don't want to speak to anyone, you can use Northamptonshire Police's online reporting system available here.

If you are worried about a family member becoming involved in a gang, you can speak to Community Initiative to Reduce Violence any time on 07539183975 or visit their website here.

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