Police have arrested 45 people and seized more than £15,000 in cash following a crackdown on crime in Felixstowe.
The announcement comes as part of the Future Felixstowe project, which is part of a government scheme to tackle anti-social behaviour and organised crime.
The scheme, which has been going on for a year, is called Clear, Hold, Build and is organised by the Home Office.
Inspector Ben Richards said: “Felixstowe has been chosen as we have seen the effects that a small number of criminals have had on the wider community, through anti-social behaviour, violence and the supply of drugs.
Inspector Ben Richards gave an update on the project (Image: Newsquest) “By focusing our efforts on dealing with these criminals we have seen a significant reduction over the last 12 months.
“Overall, we have executed multiple search warrants, seized more than £15,000 in cash and arrested 45 individuals.”
Felixstowe’s mayor David Rowe said he welcomed the effort.
He explained that drug dealers are often driven out of Ipswich, where there is a heavier police presence, and end up in Felixstowe.
Mr Rowe continued: “We know there has been a lot of work done around county lines in Suffolk, not just Ipswich, but the people who are selling drugs fear they’re going to be caught, and they often move on to other areas and Felixstowe is somewhere they move to.
Mayor David Rowe said the crackdown had reassured the town (Image: Newsquest) “So, I think the police are recognising that and that’s why they’re making sure the crime doesn’t come back.”
Councillor Lee Reeves, Chair of the East Suffolk Community Safety Partnership said: “East Suffolk Council is working with the police, town council and other local partners to make it harder for criminals to target Felixstowe for their activities.
“We want to ensure that young people, in particular, understand the risks of involvement in anti-social and criminal behaviour and have a range of positive activities to engage in.”