Police arrested 16 people arrested and seized quantities of drugs across Rotherham on Friday (9th March) as part of Operation Duxford.
The day kicked off with a number of proactive warrants executed across the borough at eight locations where members of the communities had raised concerns about suspected drugs-related crimes.
Throughout operation, 16 people were arrested for a range of offences including for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, production of cannabis, possession of a controlled drug, burglary offences and theft from a motor vehicle.
Chief Inspector Chris Foster said: “Friday’s operation saw a significant amount of activity across Rotherham to tackle issues that affect our communities.
“We executed drugs warrants, sought out wanted individuals, carried out house-to-house visits and offered crime prevention advice and reassurance, as well as having a high-visibility presence in areas of the town where communities have reported antisocial behaviour and associated crime.
“I’m grateful for the support from specialist teams across the force, including the Off Road Bike Team who were out supporting our local teams. We know that nuisance bikes are a cause of concern and we want you to know that we’re listening and we’re working hard to address these issues to make your community safer.
“We know from your feedback that speeding and vehicle crime is another issue that worries you, so we had community speedwatch sessions running throughout the day in hotspot areas, as well as a multi-agency vehicle checkpoint.”
The police checkpoint resulted in 382 vehicles being checked on Warren Vale Road and Quarry Hill Road. 21 drivers were found to be exceeding the speed limit.
A vehicle checkpoint held at the New York Stadium saw 17 vehicles being stopped and checked for insurance, licensing, tax and defects.
One car was seized for no insurance, two were given fixed penalty notices for their tyres and another two vehicles were clamped.
CI Foster added: “I hope the public in Rotherham are reassured by the action taken and want to thank our colleagues in Rotherham Council, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, Department for Work and Pensions, Environment Agency, National Probation Service, Home Office and more for offering their support to Operation Duxford.
The action continued into the evening as Neighbourhood Teams carried out proactive patrols in local areas where residents had reported concerns.
