Two houses have been raided by police, as officers vow to get tough on drugs in Preston.
Shocked bus passengers looked on as a team of five officers jumped out of a riot van and used a battering ram to open the door of a terraced house in Bence Road, Avenham, at 8.30am yesterday.
A 23-year-old year-old man who had been asleep in bed was arrested on suspicion of cannabis possession, after a small amount of cannabis bush leaves were found in the bedroom.
A woman living at the address was also searched but was not detained.
Another raid was carried out on an address in St Austin’s Road, Avenham, but officers did not find any illegal substances.
Members of the Avenham neighbourhood police team took part in reassurance patrols to explain why the raids have taken place and to listen to any concerns.
Inspector Kev Evans said: “Avenham residents have told us that drug dealing, crime and antisocial behaviour are issues affecting their community.
“Drugs can blight our communities.
“Not only do they bring obvious dangers to a person’s health, but also the risk of further anti-social behaviour and crime.
“A large proportion of burglaries, robberies and car crime are committed to fund a drug habit.
“We have listened to the concerns of residents and this operation is part of our response to remove those who we believe are illegally dealing in drugs, and those responsible for other crime and antisocial behaviour.”
He added: “Lancashire Constabulary are working closely with everyone who plays a part in preventing crime, dealing with crime and working with offenders to make sure we tackle both the causes and consequences of drug-related offences.
“This will ensure that Avenham is a safer place for the community.
“In our efforts to tackle issues that affect the community we rely on information to help us.
“We must work together.”