by Lynn Cox

Nine people were arrested in an operation targeting drug use in pubs and clubs in Medway.

The police operation was staged on Friday, October 30, at nine venues across the Towns and was also organised to crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

A team of officers, supported by Medway’s dog unit and Medway Council’s licensing officer, visited premises unannounced to carry out routine searches.

Police made nine arrests during the operation which included, one for possession of drugs with intent to supply; another for being drunk and disorderly.

Three arrests were made for being in possession of a class A drug; one for possession of a class B drug.

Two other people were arrested for being in possession of an offensive weapons and another was made for assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Sergeant Mark Carron said: “Having a visible police presence in Medway is vital.

“It reassures the public that we take drug use seriously and will arrest anyone found in possession of drugs or supplying drugs.

“It also acts as a deterrent to those who try to bring drugs into Medway at the weekends.

“We work in partnership with the pubs and clubs and they support the work we do.

“This operation was a result of police in Medway listening to concerns that had been raised by members of the public.

“Drug use will not be tolerated and we will be carrying out further operations this year to ensure we can keep Medway as safe as possible. With thousands of people visiting Medway’s night spots every weekend we want them to enjoy themselves but to do so safely.”