POLICE chiefs are calling for public co-operation as they step up the battle against drugs in St Helens.

Following their successful raid on January 8, which culminated in the arrest of16 people who were subsequently charged with concern in supply of heroin and crack cocaine, the police have announced measures aimed at preventing drugs dealing from re-establishing itself in the borough.

Detective Chief Inspector Mike Dale, explained: "Our measures include high-profile policing by both uniform and plain clothes officers in areas where drugs dealers were arrested, to prevent an influx of opportunists and new dealers. Where officers suspect the presence of people in the area to 'score' they will be challenged and arrested.

"The aim is to transfer the fear of drugs dealing away from the community to those involved in drugs and it is important that the community understand why police activity in the area has intensified. It is a necessary step in addressing the issue of drugs and reassuring the public that we are committed to impacting on the problem.

"If, for whatever, reason someone you know is stopped or questioned, then I ask you to be understanding in the knowledge that it is in the interest of everyone in St Helens as part of our strategy to make it a safer place to be."

The police are also appealing to members of the public to help in the war on drugs crime.

Chief Inspector Dale continued: "No matter how hard we try to tackle this problem we cannot succeed without the help and understanding of the community. We are intelligence-led in what we do, which requires information from people on the housing estates where this dealing occurs, as well as our own sources.

"If you have any information which may help us you can contact your local Community Police Officer; the Crime Management Unit at St Helens on 0151 777 6050 up to 8pm; or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All information will be treated in strict confidence.

"You can help us to stop neighbourhood crime and drugs dealing before it gets a foothold on your estate."

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