DROITWICH residents are being warned by West Mercia Police about the dangers of people ‘cuckooing’ – where drug dealers target the homes of vulnerable, lonely and isolated people.
They befriend the residents and then deal and cultivate from the properties.
As part of its latest campaign, officers are asking residents: ‘Are you living next door to drug dealers?’
Officers are urging anyone who thinks their neighbours have fallen victim to ‘cuckooing’ to get in touch.
Police say they are targeting drug dealing and use in communities, which can also lead to other crimes, including theft and anti-social behaviour.
Information passed on by the communities can be the key to successfully arresting and convicting drug dealers – supporting search warrants where drugs can be seized.
People are being urged to note down any suspicious activity, including descriptions of people visiting the homes, the times they are visiting and any vehicles they are using.
But they are warned not to put themselves in danger in the process.
Suspicious activity can be reported to 101 (or 999 if a crime is in progress).
Residents who do not have details of suspects can still report the incident and provide any information they think could help investigations.
Details can also be given by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org
