Drug taking.

Issued 03 February 2026

To tackle drug taking, officers have taken proactive action to disrupt drug‑related activity. This includes regularly breaking up large groups linked to drug use in high streets and residential areas. Officers have also focused on identifying and targeting people and vehicles known to be involved in drug supply, helping to reduce harm and disrupt criminal activity in the area.

Actioned 24 March 2026

Drug dealing.

Issued 03 February 2026

We have been working with the council to install rapid‑deployment CCTV cameras in areas affected by drug dealing and drug use. These locations have also seen increased foot and mobile patrols to deter offending.

Plain‑clothes officers have carried out targeted patrols on Chatham High Street and nearby hotspots, leading to multiple positive stop‑searches, drug seizures, arrests and out‑of‑court disposals. Illegally ridden e‑scooters linked to drug supply have also been seized. Several arrests have been made for offences including Possession with Intent to Supply (Class A and B) and involvement in the supply of controlled drugs.

Through proactive patrols and investigations, officers have gathered valuable intelligence on vehicles, locations and individuals connected to drug supply across Medway and associated county lines. This information is shared promptly with specialist teams to support further enforcement.

Officers have also been visiting vulnerable individuals and suspected cuckooing victims to carry out welfare checks, gather intelligence and offer reassurance. Known drug supply locations continue to be monitored through uniformed, plain‑clothes and unmarked patrols.

Strong partnership working has been essential. By sharing direct contact details with local professionals, such as street ambassadors and Medway Housing Society staff - information is passed on quickly, enabling faster intervention and more effective disruption of drug‑related activity.

Actioned 24 March 2026

Antisocial behaviour general.

Issued 03 February 2026

We have been working closely with local shops, security teams and partners in the Chatham Dockside area to tackle antisocial behaviour involving young people. This joint approach has helped issues be dealt with more quickly and has led to a reduction in calls to police.

Officers worked with a local business and a nearby school to address repeated nuisance behaviour and shoplifting. By reviewing CCTV, speaking directly to students and setting clear expectations, partners were able to take early action and prevent further incidents. This has supported staff wellbeing, reassured the public and reduced problems during busy after‑school periods.

Officers have also taken part in a dedicated operation to tackle the illegal and antisocial use of e‑scooters and e‑bikes, resulting in more than 30 vehicles being seized. Regular visits continue at locations linked to drug use and antisocial behaviour, with action taken where needed to keep the area safe.

Actioned 24 March 2026