Drug arrests in Crewkerne

8:48am Monday 21st May 2007

Comments (0)   Have your say »

POLICE have targeted drug dealers in Crewkerne in an operation to crack down on the supply and use of Ketamine in the town.

On Friday, May 18, officers from Crewkerne were joined by specialist search teams and dog handlers to carry out a warrant on a pub in the Markwet Square area of the town as part of the force's Operation Relentless.

The police community contact vehicle was also in the town on the night to provide information and support for residents.

A 44-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 25-year-old man and 22-year-old man, all from Crewkerne, were all arrested on suspicion of possession of controlled drugs.

All have now been given police bail pending further enquiries.

A 32-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of a public order offence.

He was later given a fixed penalty notice.

Officers from the Neighbourhood Beat Team will now be handing out postcards to members of the community, especially young people, in a bid to provide more information about the drug and its effects.

The eye-catching postcards also offer details about where to go for help and advice about drugs issues, and how to contact police with information about dealers.

The campaign is supported by Somerset Strategic Partnership of the Drugs Action Team and the Primary Care Trust.

Temporary Detective Inspector Jim Bigger, who has been co-ordinating the operation, said: "We had been getting information that Ketamine was being dealt and used in Crewkerne.

"The information is coming from patrolling officers who are finding young people incapacitated by the drug, and from concerned members of the community.

"Ketamine leaves users in a very vulnerable condition. They won't feel pain while under the influence, so they could be badly injured and not seek help. Also, users can sometimes be unable to move, which obviously leaves them at potential risk of robbery and assault, including sexual assault.

"These arrests prove that we are taking this situation very seriously. I want everyone in Crewkerne to know that we will continue to work pro-actively and relentlessly to target anyone dealing or using this drug."

Ketamine is a Class C drug. It is a strong painkiller used medically in operations on people and animals. It leads to a floating feeling and hallucinations. While taking it users sometimes can't move and don't feel pain, so they can be badly hurt without realising. They can suffer panic attacks and depression.

High doses, or mixing with alcohol, ecstasy or amphetamines can slow breathing and heartbeat, leading to unconsciousness or even death.

Users do not suffer withdrawal symptoms, but people can become psychologically dependent. The more it's used, the more is needed to get the same effect.

It is illegal to possess or supply Ketamine. Possession carries a penalty of up to two years and/or an unlimited fine. Supply has a sentence of up to 14 years and/or and unlimited fine.

For more information on drugs visit www.talktofrank.com.

If you are worried about someone using or dealing drugs call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or contact Crewkerne police direct on 0845 456 7000.