Three suspected drug dealers were arrested during a police operation targeting crime and violence in Medway’s night-time economy.

Uniformed and plain-clothes officers carried out the operation in Chatham, Gillingham and Rochester on Friday, October 9, focusing on offences and potential violence against women and girls.

During the evening, officers in Rochester encountered a man who was seen urinating in a car park before approaching women sitting on a bench in the High Street.

Police said the man was subsequently found to be a registered sex offender. He was removed from the High Street, while officers supported the women involved.

The man was among 11 people searched during the operation, with a further three searches taking place in The Terrace, Rochester.

Cannabis and cocaine seized

At around 10.50pm, officers saw people smoking cannabis inside a vehicle.

A search uncovered a small quantity of cannabis, deal bags and more than £800 in cash.

A further search of the vehicle led to the discovery of additional cannabis and a quantity of cocaine.

The vehicle’s three occupants — two women, aged 25 and 26, from Rochester, and a 25-year-old man from Gillingham — were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

All three were subsequently released on conditional bail while police enquiries continue.

Detective Inspector Aaron Watkin said tackling violence against women and girls and other offences linked to the night-time economy was an important part of policing in Medway.

He said: “Through efforts such as this, we can ensure locals and visitors alike can continue to enjoy themselves in safety and comfort.”

Police said further operations are expected to be carried out regularly across Medway.