Cannabis and a knife were found on two Ipswich teenagers after a group were searched by police in an Ipswich car park.

The incident took place on September 15 in South Street after recent complaints from businesses in Norwich Road, Orford Street and South Street alleging that drug dealing and anti-social behaviour was taking place.

As a result, the a specialist gang unit and uniform officers conducted searches of 10 people in a group in the car park nearby.

A 14 year-old male also from Ipswich was arrested on suspicion for possession of a bladed article and an 18 year-old male from Ipswich was arrested on suspicion for possession with intent to supply cannabis.

The pair were taken to Marltesham police headquarters for questioning with the 14 year-old being charged later on the Saturday with possession of bladed article in a public place.

Ipswich Star: The knife believed to belong to the 14-year-old. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARYThe knife believed to belong to the 14-year-old. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY (Image: Archant)

The Youth Gang Prevention Team was set up last year and whose primary purpose is to focus on prevention and early intervention of children and young people associated with gangs or violence, much of which is also drug related.

The unit’s Sgt Murray Osman said: “With support from the public who provide us with intelligence about suspect activity in their communities, we will continue to focus our energies on disrupting drug production and supply activity.

“The supply and dealing of illegal drugs will not be tolerated and residents can be reassured that any information passed to police will be acted on.”

The 14 year-old has been released from custody and will appear before Ipswich youth court on a date to be fixed.

Ipswich Star: The drugs seizes from the teenager at the scene. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARYThe drugs seizes from the teenager at the scene. Picture: SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY (Image: Archant)

The 18 year-old was later released under investigation pending further investigation.

Anyone who has information about drug use in their community is asked to contact their local policing team on 101 or alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.