City drug crackdown: residents must help us say police (From Daily Echo)

City drug crackdown: residents must help us say police

8:21am Monday 4th March 2013 in News

“WE’RE not going away.”

That was the message from police leading a crackdown on drug-related violent crime in the Southampton area.

As the two-year operation approaches the end of its first year, a senior officer said it is on target to achieve its aims.

But he called on residents to play their part by giving information.

Hampshire Police launched Operation Fortress, a two-year campaign to target serious violent crime linked to drugs in Southampton, in May last year.

Up to January, officers have charged 71 people and seized about £132,000 of drugs and about £98,000 in cash.

“We’re not going away,” said Chief Inspector Tony Rowlinson, New Forest district commander.

“The message is, if you are intent on coming to anywhere within Hampshire to commit drugrelated violent crime, you are at great risk of being caught and convicted.”

Chief Insp Rowlinson said a measure of success was the public’s “incredibly positive”

feedback with residents feeling police were taking positive action.

“We want to help the community and we need the community to help themselves to regain those streets that have not necessarily been a nice place to live,” said Chief Insp Rowlinson.

He said residents could help with information and urged people to contact them with concerns.

n Two people have been charged with drug offences following police raids in Southampton on Friday.

Ayshea Evans, 36-years-old, from Shakespeare Drive in Totton, has been charged with possession with intent to supply ClassAand Class B drugs and possession of a Class B drug. She has been remanded in custody to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court today.

Marc Antony Driscoll, 23, from Jackie Wigg Gardens in Totton, has been charged with possession of a Class B drug. He has been bailed to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on Monday, March 25.

A 21-year-old woman from Totton received a caution for possession of a Class B drug.

Four others have been arrested and bailed.

Anyone with information can contact Operation Fortress on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.