POLICE in West Norfolk have carried out a drugs raid roughly every three days over the last 18 months as part of a major crackdown.

And in a stark message to drug dealers, Supt Dave Marshall, says officers will continue breaking down doors to ensure the proactive policing deters them from putting drugs on the streets.

Officers have so far executed 160 warrants across the patch – a major increase on the 68 in the previous 18 months.

“It’s not a flash in the pan and we are taking positive action to move things forward in terms of areas people are concerned about,” said Supt Marshall of Norfolk police.

“Information comes from a variety of sources and we act on it. It’s not just about drugs – it’s about getting the message across that we will not tolerate it. We will continue breaking down doors where we have to,” he added.

“We work hard to tackle drugs at every stage of the chain, whether it is shutting down cannabis factories, locking up dealers or tackling those that use drugs in and around the town.”

Crime figures show that the proactive methods appear to be having positive results.

“We have seen a 16pc reduction in crime since April, and that is on top of a 10pc reduction last year. I am extremely pleased,” said Supt Marshall.

He says that a number of crimes in the priority categories would have been committed to fund a drug habit.

“It is about focus and if we have got people that will engage with us we will work to help them, in terms of changing behaviour. If they do not want to change, then we will be knocking on doors at all hours and stopping them in the street. We know who they are.”