Visits to licensed premises by a police drugs detection dog in Oldham have sought to disrupt the supply of drugs in bars, clubs and pubs. A trained drugs dog joined police on Friday, July 13, and visited premises in Failsworth, Saddleworth and Uppermill as part of Operation Caminada, an effort to combat organised crime in the town.
Seven premises were visited and a 25-year-old from Lees, Oldham was found to be in possession of cocaine and summonsed to appear at Oldham Magistrates Court. A 25-year-old from Greenfield was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon. In total, 25 people were searched after the dog indicated that they could be carrying drugs. Officers were joined by partners from licensing and Trading Standards.
Detective Sergeant Paul Cockburn, from the Oldham Division of Greater Manchester Police said: “This was a proactive initiative to help rid Oldham of drugs and the associated problems that come with them. We have been working closely with licensed premises who welcome the action we are taking and the fact that only a small amount of drugs have been found indicates that these bars are being run responsibly.
“Members of the public were extremely patient as we made the searches so I would like to thank them for their support. I’d like to reassure them that this was not just a one night operation as we will continue week in, week out to target the small minority involved in organised crime in Oldham.“
