Police launch campaign of "intensified action" against serious crime in Ipswich

The big picture: This surge in activity supplements ongoing proactive work and is part of a continued investment in the town to target perpetrators of the most serious offences.

By the numbers:

• 17 arrests made since 27 September in connection with suspected drug-related criminality

• 6 warrants conducted

• 8 visits to properties subject to suspected 'cuckooing'

• 1 Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) check completed

Key actions:

• Increased police presence and visibility

• Conducting property warrants

• Interventions and safeguarding activities for vulnerable people exploited by drug dealers

• Criminal Behaviour Order checks on known individuals

Why it matters: The intensified action aims to reassure the public and demonstrate the police's proactive approach to disrupting drug-related crime.

What they're saying: Superintendent Andy Martin, South Area Commander, said: "This activity demonstrates our ongoing and relentless pursuit of offenders and to make Ipswich a hostile place for criminals who choose to involve themselves in the preparation and selling of illicit substances, use of violence, and exploitation of those most vulnerable within in our community."

Tim Passmore, Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner, added: "I fully support this dynamic, targeted approach being deployed in our county town. I hope this pro-active activity sends out a clear message that criminals are not welcome in Suffolk."

What's next:

• Daily briefings to assess intelligence and deploy resources effectively.

• Continued collaboration with partner agencies, including the council, support agencies, and charities.

• A public meeting hosted by the Chief Constable and Police and Crime Commissioner on 15 October.

The bottom line: Police are urging the public to continue reporting suspicious activity through their online reporting tool or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.