Barnstaple police town centre drugs search

BARNSTAPLE police searched 30 people suspected of carrying drugs in the town centre last Friday night.

Officers visited eight licensed premises with a drugs dog as part of a 'Police Against Drugs' drive in the town.

One person was arrested for possession of Class A drugs and several warnings were handed out to people carrying cannabis.

Officers also dealt "robustly" with a small number of disorder incidents and gathered information about cases of underage drinking.

PC Simon Mitchell, who coordinated the operation, said: "The response from the licensees, door staff and members of public was very positive.

"The publicans were more than happy to have police on their premises as this promoted an environment that allowed those without drugs to enjoy their evening with minimal disruption.

"This operation showed what can be achieved with a partnership approach towards dealing with criminal activity and antisocial behaviour.

"It also raises public confidence that police will deal positively with the small amount of individuals that engage in drugs — this activity will not be tolerated on the streets of North Devon."