Town under a spotlight after drugs raid and seven arrests Dispersal order put in place after report of a group carrying ‘blades’
POLICE have stepped up patrols in a Staffordshire Moorlands town – after seven people were arrested and three homes were raided following a mass disorder.
Armed police, patrol cars, and the helicopter, were sent out in Biddulph last Tuesday (September 15), after reports disorder had broken out and a teen had a knife.
The seven people who were arrested – who police say are aged between 15 and 18 and all from North Staffordshire – have been released on conditional bail as the police investigation continues.
The following day, police raided three homes in the town and controlled drugs and paraphernalia were seized.
Now officers have applied for a dispersal order and even used stop and search powers as they continue to crack down on troublemakers.
A Staffordshire Moorlands Police spokesman said: “Officers continue to patrol Biddulph and still have the dispersal authority in place.
“Officers have also completed a stop and search power in relation to recent issues and will continue to tackle criminal and ASB behaviour.”
Chief Inspector Mark Thorley, commander of Staffordshire Moorlands police, welcomed the increase in local patrols.
He said: “Great work from a great team keeping our communities safe and providing reassurance.
“A dispersal order will remain for the near future and a patrol plan is in place to ensure extra focus is given to the area.
“Our officers will continue to do what’s necessary to keep the Moorlands a safe place to live, work and visit.”
Staffordshire Chief Constable Gareth Morgan praised the town’s police for their continued efforts in Biddulph over the recent days.
He added: “Thanks to the team for their on going focus on these issues - best addressed by local officers. Appreciate their flexibility and commitment.”