DETECTIVES leading the crackdown on London dealers peddling drugs in Ipswich today hailed the operation's success following the release of new performance figures.

DETECTIVES leading the crackdown on London dealers peddling drugs in Ipswich today hailed the operation's success following the release of new performance figures.

Since its launch in January 2007, Operation Academy has overseen the seizure of drugs with an estimated street value of £270,000.

Meanwhile, 229 offences have been recorded and 371 people have been arrested, 47 per cent of whom were from London, 49pc were from Suffolk and the remainder were from other areas.

A further 80 people have been detained for drug searches, 174 people were encountered in drug dealing areas and a number of items have been seized.

These include more than £65,000 in cash, a self-loading pistol with ammunition, two BB guns, nine knives, numerous mobile phones, five cars, two digital cameras and several items of stolen property.

In addition, a large quantity of drugs including heroin, crack, cocaine, cannabis, ecstasy, MDMA, valium, Viagra, amphetamines and methadone has been seized.

Detective chief inspector Mark Jepson, crime manager for Ipswich, said: “I'm pleased with the results we've achieved so far but am disappointed that dealers still come to Ipswich.

“We rely heavily on information coming in from the public and are interested to hear from people who have noticed increased activity around their neighbouring properties, people hanging around, meeting people and acting suspiciously.

“Once we have sufficient intelligence we are able to obtain and execute warrants at addresses and make arrests.

“We also target areas where we know dealers operate. In some circumstances information we receive can lead to crack house closure orders being granted, which means these people who continue to cause misery to those living around them will be evicted and prohibited from returning to the property.

“We are committed to this operation and it will continue for the foreseeable future. Removing drug dealers from the streets can only make our communities safer and more pleasant places in which to work and live.”

If you have information about drug activity in your area, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you are worried about your drug or alcohol use, or that of a friend or relative, call the Suffolk Drug and Alcohol Action Team helpline on 01473 299640 between 9am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.