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A drugs operation conducted in Fleet town centre on Saturday, August 16 has been hailed a success by officers. Local officers, supported by the Roads Policing Unit and Dog Units, spent the evening patrolling the town and working with licensed premises to target drug use and supply. Management and staff at the Emporium and Propaganda public houses allowed police to use a specialist Ion Track Unit on their premises, which allows officers to take swabs which are then tested for traces of drugs. A total of 232 samples were taken, which resulted in 27 positive hits and showed around 10 per cent of those tested came into contact with a controlled substance, either directly or indirectly. One person was arrested and bailed pending further enquiries. Drugs dogs were also used to check queues of customers waiting to enter Jaxx Nightclub, again with full support of the management. PC Mark Wukovich, who organised the operation, said: "The purpose of our operation was to let people know that drugs are not tolerated in Hampshire, and we will use a range of initiatives to target those who choose to ignore this message. "The management and staff at the venues where we conducted our tests were extremely supportive of our efforts and we received many positive comments from members of the public who were pleased to see the police taking positive action." Hart District Commander, Chief Inspector Sarah Jackson, said: "It was reassuring that despite the large number of tests carried out, only one person was arrested and very few tested positive. It was also pleasing to see the licensed premises and police working in partnership to eliminate drug dealing in the town centre. "Our message is clear - if you are, or are thinking about bringing drugs into Fleet, we will catch you and we will take action against you. "Tackling drugs remains a priority for Hart and we will continue to use a range of initiatives to target anyone who comes into our towns and villages to deal drugs." Safer Hart is committed to working in partnership on initiatives such as this and is delighted with the positive outcome that has been achieved. Not only does this initiative reinforce a local determination not to tolerate drug related offences it also provides invaluable reassurance to the public.
For more information visit Hampshire Constabulary
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