AN OPERATION has been launched to clamp down on drug dealing in Stratford.
Police have launched Operation Brick, which is specifically targeted at protecting vulnerable people in the town from being exploited by county lines drug dealers.
Over recent months, the neighboorhood policing team have become aware of drug dealers coming into the area and taking over properties to deal drugs from. This is known as cuckooing and it is often accompanied by threats of violence.
Proactive investigations are ongoing to bring to justice those responsible for the exploitation and bringing of drugs into Stratford.
Officers are increasing visits to vulnerable people and patrols in the areas where they are being exploited. And they are now asking for the public’s help by looking out for the signs of exploitation.
Inspector Ben Hembry, safer neighbourhood lead for the Stratford district, said: “We have identified a number of vulnerable people who have experienced intimidation by people looking to deal drugs. These dealers take over their homes to sell drugs from. They often threaten the occupant with violence.
“We can drive this despicable behaviour out of Stratford if we are all aware of the signs of someone being exploited and report concerns to police. Working together we can make Stratford as hostile as possible for those who look to exploit vulnerable people.
“We will act on all information provided. No matter how small it may seem it helps us to get a better picture of who is being exploited and who is responsible.”
To report concerns around exploitation visit www.warwickshire.police.uk/report or call 101. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
