Norwich: Drugs Raid At Pub

3 March 2014, 08:25 | Updated: 3 March 2014, 08:28

Police have made six arrests and seized a quantity of Class A drugs after raiding The Farmhouse pub in the city.

Officers raided the pub on Colman Road shortly before 10pm on Friday (28 February) as part of a crackdown on illegal drug activity.
 
Around 30 officers swooped on the pub, searching the premises and a vehicle in the car park in response to information that drug use was taking place.
 
A 32-year-old man was detained in the car park, having run from police and was found in possession of white powder.
 
He was arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class A drug, obstructing police and being drunk in charge of a vehicle.
 
Meanwhile, a 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply after a quantity of Class A was found underneath a seat.
 
Police drugs dog Maggie also took part in the search which resulted in around eight wraps of what is thought to be Class A drugs being seized.
 
Officers from Norfolk Constabulary’s Licensing Team were equipped with an ion tracker which identifies traces of controlled substances through swabs on surfaces. Twenty-seven swabs were taken with 21 positive traces, mostly for cocaine. Officers from Norwich City Council and Trading Standards were also in attendance.
 
Four other people, three men and a woman, were also initially arrested as police searched the premises but were later de-arrested after having their details taken and will be dealt with at a later date.  Both men arrested were questioned at Wymondham Police Investigation Centre and bailed until later in March while enquiries continue.
 
Sgt Mark Shepherd, who led the raid, said: "This was a successful operation resulting in a number of arrests. Two people were taken to custody while the four who were de-arrested will be dealt with later, following enquiries with CCTV.
 
"The warrant was executed after information was received suggesting drug use was taking place inside the premises. Evidence was found to support this and our investigations will continue.”
 
Norwich South Inspector Jon Papworth said: "This action underlines our clear message that criminal behaviour, especially around drug activity, will not be tolerated.
 
Targeting drug activity is a priority to the Norwich South team and I hope this action reassures members of the community that we will take positive action to identify and arrest those involved.”