Police and prison services battle against prison crime

Inspector Stephen Clarke of Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team

Three people were arrested by police in a joint crackdown with HM Prison Services to tackle prison smuggling at Buckley Hall Prison.

Throughout June the North West Area Search Team (NWAST) of HM Prison Service joined police and prison officers to search vehicles and visitors.

During their search one person was arrested on suspicion of possessing a lock-knife and two people were arrested and cautioned for possession of class B drugs.

Officers from the Road Traffic Unit used automatic number plate recognition equipment and vehicles were searched. Visitors to the prison had to walk through a metal detector and police used drugs dogs to help prevent the smuggling of mobile phones, weapons and SIM cards into the prison.

Patrols around the prison were also increased to prevent items being thrown over the prison perimeter fence.

Inspector Stephen Clarke of Rochdale North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This was first piloted last year when we seized a significant number of steroids, phones, sim cards and vehicles.

“The results we have had so far are an example of our successful work alongside the prison authorities.

“Reducing the availability of mobile phones and drugs in prison not only increases someone’s chances of living a drug free lifestyle but also helps reduce their chance of re-offending and limits their abilities to organise crime while in prison.”

Ian Adams, manager of the North West Area Search Team said: “This operation allows for the 99.9 per cent of people who visit Buckley Hall to enjoy a safe visit without the interruption or threat of individuals passing illegal substances.

“The NWAST are a highly trained team of prison officers who specialise in dog handling duties.

“We welcome the support of Greater Manchester Police and we hope that by working together can have a significant impact on crime in this area of Rochdale.”

A senior manager from Buckley Hall Prison said: “Drugs in prisons in the North West cause us particular problems with issues around addiction, violence and debt.

“We welcome the partnership working between the different agencies to combat this problem.

“The aim is to show drug dealers that we have a zero tolerance policy in Rochdale. We want to be able to create a safer environment both here and for the local community.”