Pubs and clubs in Medway were targeted by police in a bid to tackle drug use and anti-social behaviour.

The operation last Saturday saw a team of officers visit various premises unannounced to carry out searches of the venues and the people in them.

Three men were arrested, one for being drunk and disorderly and two on suspicion of being in possession of class A drugs, one with intent to supply.

Three other people were also given warnings for being in possession of cannabis.

The officers were supported by the police dog unit and Medway Council’s licensing officer for the operation, which was to also ensure venues are promoting licensing objectives.

These include preventing crime and disorder, public safety, protecting children from harm and helping prevent public nuisances.

In total, 11 licensed premises were visited across Medway.

Sgt Mark Carron said: "Kent Police in Medway takes drug use seriously and having a visible police presence is vital to reassure the public.

"Our continuing work acts as a very good 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 police in Medway listening to concerns that had been raised by landlords and licensees as well as members of the public.

"We carry out regular spot checks on pubs and clubs across the Towns, so the warning is not to come to Medway if you are intent on either using or supplying drugs.

"With thousands of people visiting Medway’s night spots every weekend we want them to enjoy themselves but to do so safely."

John Wray of Fort Pitt Street, Chatham, has been charged with being drunk and disorderly.

He was bailed to appear at court in April.

A 42-year-old Chatham man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a class A drug with intent to supply, he has been released on police bail until Monday, May 10.

A 34-year-old Gillingham man was arrested on suspicion of possession of a class A drug, he has been released on police bail until Wednesday, May 5.

The premises that were visited were:

The Railway Tavern, Rainham; The Green Lion, Rainham; The Wagon at Hale, Chatham; The Princess Park, Chatham; The Victoria Cross, Lordswood; The Kestrel, Lordswood; The Medway Queen, Chatham; The Jubilee, Strood; The Bell, Frinsbury; The Queen Charlotte, Rochester; Casino Rooms, Rochester.