Shropshire Police Chief Praises Local People

The public are playing vital roles in helping police arrest and jail drug dealers operating in Shropshire, a senior police chief said today.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Edwards, head of the county's CID, praised people for supplying information about drug activity and associated crimes.

He was speaking following several cases at Shrewsbury Crown Court where offenders involved in supplying drugs have received lengthy prison sentences.

The most recent was on Friday when three men - two from Cardiff and one from Liverpool - were jailed for a combined total of more than 16 years after being caught in Ludlow with cocaine worth almost £5,000.

They were arrested after police received a tip-off from members of Ludlow Golf Club who became suspicious of an Audi car.

"This was fantastic support from members of the public who acted on their suspicions by calling the police.  We were given the registration number of the suspect vehicle which officers were then able to trace," said DCI Edwards.

"We are receiving more and more of this kind of assistance from people, whether it relates to drugs or other criminal activity.  It's exactly what I want, something I want to encourage.

"The public are our eyes and ears and if people contact us by calling the 101 non-emergency police number, their calls will be treated in confidence.  The general rule is, if you see people or vehicles acting suspiciously, then contact the police so we can make checks.  If it's innocent activity, no harm is done and people will be reassured knowing we've got their interests at heart."

He said more and more people across Shropshire were coming on board helping police by providing tip-offs and general information.

"It's paying dividends - especially when involving illegal drugs, rogue traders and distraction burglars.  I look upon it as a team effort - the police and local people working in partnership to benefit local communities."

Information can also be passed to the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.

Issued: Monday, 12 December 2011