Drugs busts across Colchester seize £20k amid crackdown
POLICE officers have seized a large amount of suspected drugs and more than £20,000 in cash after a co-ordinated strike against drug-driven violence in Colchester.
A number of people have been arrested as part of the operation which has been hailed as “incredible” by a police chief.
Yesterday morning, officers executed ten warrants at addresses in the town which they suspected to be linked to drug dealing and associated violence.
The warrants are part of an investigation which was launched as a result of a rise in violent crime in Colchester town centre, specifically since coronavirus restrictions were lifted earlier this year and the night-time economy re-opened.
During the raids, Essex Police seized a large amount of suspected Class A and Class B drugs and more than £20,000 in cash.
Among those arrested were two men, aged 31 and 24 and from Colchester, on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent.
Their arrest is in relation to the serious assault of a man in Shrub End Road on September 9. All those arrested remained in custody for questioning last night.
The calculated strikes also saw officers serve a review notice on the Leather Bottle pub, in Shrub End, in connection with their investigation. This will now be heard by Colchester Council.
Chief inspector Rob Huddleston, Colchester’s district commander, said: “Colchester has an incredibly lively town centre – one which we know attracts many people from outside the town.
“And while the vast majority of people visiting our town and our venues are enjoying themselves safely and are simply out to have a good time, the reality is some are not; some people are intent on using the town to sell drugs.
“We have been consistent in our message to drug dealers; you are not welcome here. Drug dealing and the violence which goes with it are not welcome in our town.
“Where appropriate, we will offer support to those who need it, but we also need to bring justice for the communities which are being impacted.
“My priority is to ensure our incredible town remains safe for the people who live, work and study here and the thousands of people who visit it each year.”
