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Your local Neighbourhood Policing Team is reminding residents to remain vigilant and report suspected illegal drug activity. Drug-related crime can have a significant impact on communities, often leading to anti-social behaviour, violence, exploitation, environmental damage, and increased fear of crime. Common Indicators of Drug ActivityResidents should be aware of the following signs, which may indicate drug dealing or drug use: Suspicious BehaviourFrequent short-stay visitors to an address, particularly at all hours of the day or night.Individuals approaching a property briefly before leaving within a few minutes.Hand-to-hand exchanges occurring in public places.People regularly meeting vehicles for a short period before quickly separating.Individuals loitering in communal areas without an obvious reason.Vehicle-Related IndicatorsVehicles repeatedly attending a location for short periods.Occupants remaining inside vehicles while multiple people approach.Vehicles stopping briefly to exchange items or collect individuals.Increased traffic to addresses that would not normally experience high visitor numbers.Signs at a PropertyStrong smells associated with drug use or cultivation.Windows permanently covered or blacked out.Excessive security measures such as multiple cameras or reinforced doors.Unusual noise from extractor fans running continuously.High levels of footfall at unusual times.Drug Use IndicatorsDiscarded drug paraphernalia such as:- Nitrous oxide canisters
- Small deal bags
- Foil wraps
- Syringes
- Burnt spoons or pipes
Groups gathering in secluded locations for extended periods.Individuals appearing disorientated, drowsy, or behaving erratically.County Lines and Exploitation IndicatorsBe aware that vulnerable adults and young people can be exploited by drug networks. Signs may include: Sudden possession of expensive items or cash.Frequent unexplained absences.Association with older or unknown individuals.Multiple mobile phones.Increased secrecy regarding movements or friendships.
What Residents Should Do✅ Report suspicious activity as soon as possible. ✅ Make a note of: Dates and times.Descriptions of individuals.Vehicle registrations, makes, and models.Locations involved.Any CCTV or Ring doorbell footage available.✅ Continue reporting incidents, even if they appear minor. Information from multiple reports helps build intelligence and identify patterns. Reporting OptionsEmergency – 999 Crime in progress.Immediate threat to life.Violence or serious disorder.Non-Emergency – 101 Report suspected drug activity.Share intelligence or ongoing concerns.Crimestoppers (Anonymous) 0800 555 111www.crimestoppers-uk.org | 
