City’s Drug Dealers Beware: Policeman Jim and Ram Raiders Smash Portsmouth’s Crime
Portsmouth’s Drugs Related Harm Team just hit a major milestone – their 100th arrest in just four months! Since launching on 3 January, they’ve been smashing drug gangs and cleaning up the streets.
Teen Suspect Caught in Drug Sweep
On 4 May, officers snapped up a 16-year-old Essex boy suspected of offering Class A drugs. Although released from custody, he remains under investigation with safeguarding teams involved. This arrest marks another win in the crackdown.
Protecting the Vulnerable
- 14 children referred to social services and criminal exploitation teams
- Over 200 adults safeguarded, many trapped by addiction and exploited by ruthless gangs
- Police targeting “cuckooing” – where dealers invade homes of vulnerable drug users to operate
Many affected locals are now seeking help, turning to drug recovery hubs and treatment centres thanks to police efforts.
Major Hauls of Drugs, Cash & Weapons Seized
The team has confiscated around £280,000 worth of drugs and cleared dangerous weapons like imitation guns, knives, blades, asps, and batons from Portsmouth streets. They also nabbed £37,000 in cash. Financial probes are ongoing to freeze criminals’ ill-gotten gains.
“We’re not just going after vulnerable users but hitting drug dealers hard to protect our city,” said Detective Sergeant Dan Sanzen-Baker.
Chief Inspector Jim Pegler added: “We promised to dismantle the worst drug networks and we’re delivering. While demand for heroin and crack remains, our message is clear – seek help and stop the cycle.”
Determined to Keep Portsmouth Safe
With gangs ready to swoop in from other cities, police vow to stay relentless. They encourage locals to chip in by reporting any suspicious drug activity via 101 or anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The fight against drugs is far from over, but thanks to Policeman Jim and his crack team, Portsmouth is hitting back hard.
