Drug crackdown cuts Soho crime

Police arrested 50 people in a crackdown on drug users in Soho last week. Almost 300 people were stopped on suspicion of possessing drugs, weapons or stolen property.

Westminster council said the operation led to a 40 per cent fall in the number of crimes usually recorded in Soho over a weekend.

Officers issued 40 warnings for cannabis possession and made 15 anti-social dispersal orders.

Chief Inspector Matthew Foley, who leads the West End police, said: "Soho is an iconic location visited by people from around the world to enjoy its pubs, cafes, restaurants and unique atmosphere.

"The police in Westminster are working with colleagues in Westminster City Council and businesses to tackle a local drugs market and low level crime that occasionally detract from the attractions of the area. Soho is already a safe place to visit and I am pleased with the results of this operation, which will make it safer still."

The operation is part of the SaferSoho project to reduce crime and includes a new radio system linking businesses to police and a CCTV control centre.