Hull: Op Forager returns to the Avenues

A popular operation returned to the Avenues in Hull on Tuesday (29 March) as the Hull West Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) were joined by a passive drugs dog, colleagues from other areas, and representatives from Hull City Council.

The benefits from this high-visibility approach are varied, including identifying those who may be carrying or involved in the supply of drugs, gathering and building intelligence in the areas visited, and offering reassurance to the communities that their concerns are being listened to and acted upon.

Community Beat Manager for the Avenues Ward PC Phil Williamson said: “I have identified that we have a number of ongoing issues with street drinking and drug use in the area. My team and I have worked with a range of partners to address this in a manner that sends out a firm message that these activities will not be tolerated. It continues to be a priority for the local Neighbourhood Policing Team.”

With support from other NPTs in Hull and the East Riding, and Hull City Council, officers patrolled key areas such as Western Cemetery, Princes Avenue, Newland Avenue, Pearson Park, Beverley Road, and the old railway track that runs from Duesbery Street.

“On Tuesday, we carried out 12 stop and searches, made six seizures of drugs including cannabis and spice, issued two cannabis warnings and a further individual will be attending Pickering Road Police Station for interview for drugs possession offences,” added PC Williamson.

“In addition to identifying and searching individuals that are suspected of being in possession of or supplying drugs, this operation also aids intelligence gathering which is crucial to directing our work going forward.

“The intention behind this tactic is to utilise an evidence-based approach to deterring drug use in the area, and we will continue to develop and refine Op Forager.

“The public continue to give us great feedback and tell us they feel reassured to see us acting upon the information we receive from them.

“We are a community-focused organisation and this feedback drives our priorities. We are also committed to knocking on every door within the Humberside force area as part of our Humber Talking initiative. Op Forager shows that we use the information provided by the local community to target those engaging in criminal behaviour.

“I would also like to pass on my thanks to all those who supported, including PCs and PCSOs from the NPTs in Hull West, Hull Central and the East Riding, as well as the representatives from Hull City Council. Initiatives would not be possible without this support.

“Yet again there were some fantastic results, including education and out-of-court disposals, and I am incredibly proud of the hugely professional approach taken by my colleagues.”

If you are concerned about drug-related crime in your area, please speak to your local team or call our non-emergency 101 line. If you would like to report anonymously, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If someone is in immediate danger, always call 999.

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