Major Drugs Crackdown Rocks Portsmouth!
Portsmouth police joined forces with city council, UK Border Force, MOD police, and others last week for a massive two-day swoop targeting drug dealers and crime hotspots.
Big Busts and Multiple Arrests
Between Dec 1 and 2, the joint operation hit addresses across Portsmouth and nearby areas. The results? Scores of arrests for drug supply, knife offences, theft, burglary, and more:
- A 17-year-old from Portsmouth arrested for conspiring to supply Class A drugs and money laundering. Bailed until Feb 2, 2017.
- Abdul-Hakim Hubahimfura, 22, charged with carrying a knife in public. Bailed to appear Dec 20.
- David Boam, 49, charged with shop theft and abusive behaviour. Court date Dec 2.
- Another 17-year-old arrested for burglary and theft; bailed to Jan 5, 2017.
- A 31-year-old man arrested for drug-impaired driving; bailed to Jan 30, 2017.
- A 39-year-old man charged with five counts of making off without paying; bailed to Jan 6, 2017.
- Bogdan Duda, 35, and Lee Verinder, 35, arrested on outstanding warrants; appeared in court.
Earlier warrant raids on Nov 29 also netted:
- A 16-year-old boy arrested for possessing criminal property and conspiracy to supply drugs. Bailed until Feb 21, 2017.
- A 47-year-old man arrested over cocaine supply; bailed to Feb 21, 2017.
- A 50-year-old man suspected of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs; bailed to Feb 7, 2017.
- Robert Gray, 35, charged with assault and criminal damage; court date Nov 30.
Operation Fortress Battles Drugs and Crime
Chief Inspector Jim Pegler shared: “These targeted patrols and warrants form part of our ongoing Operation Fortress to smash drug dealing and violence across Portsmouth.”
“We’ll act on any criminal activity we spot. Our message is clear: drug dealers in Portsmouth are on constant watch, and we won’t stop disrupting their operations.”
He warned about the devastating impact of crack cocaine and heroin on addicts and the community. Gangs exploit vulnerable people, even children, for their criminal trade.
“We’re relentless in tracking down and smashing these harmful networks. We work closely with partners to protect Portsmouth’s most vulnerable,” he added.
Spot Suspicious Activity? Here’s What to Look Out For
- Sudden surge of short visits to a house or flat
- Quick exchanges between small groups outside properties
- Frequent comings and goings at a residence all day
- People loitering nearby, often on their phones
- Unusual cars parked outside, or driven by unfamiliar people
If you see any of these signs, don’t hesitate to report it.
Speak Up – Confidentially
Ring police on 101 for non-urgent concerns or 999 in emergencies.
Email Operation Fortress confidentially: [email protected]
Prefer to stay anonymous? Call Crimestoppers on 0800 500 111.
Portsmouth is fighting back hard against drugs – and the streets are watching.
