Drugs, guns and crossbow seized in Rotherham crime crackdown

More than 85 officers and 25 PCSOs took part in last Wednesday’s targeted day of action across the district.

Class A and B drugs were recovered — including 750 cannabis plants — along with £3,000 cash.

There was also a focus on domestic abuse, with five people arrested for outstanding offences.

Rotherham district commander Chief Supt Laura Koscikiewicz said: “We are stronger with the help of our communities.

“Sometimes it may seem like we do not act on intelligence given to us straight away, but we are thankful for all information we receive, as it helps us build a bigger understanding of the on-going issues and note those involved in blighting our areas.

“Then we can take action. We can obtain warrants and disrupt those involved.”

Duxford days also include engagement work — six hotels were visited by officers to highlight signs to look for in protecting vulnerable youngsters against child sexual exploitation.

There were also engagement stalls, high-visibility patrols and community speed watch operations with vans at Swinton, Thurcroft and Kiveton.

The highest speed detected was 46mph in a 30 zone, while one of the vehicles was deliberately obstructed by a white van driver for 15 minutes.

Chief Supt Koscikiewicz said: “Despite what people think, safety camera vans are not utilised as a way of making money, they’re used to make people think twice, change their driving behaviour and ultimately save lives.

“Unfortunately, this year we have already seen seven fatal incidents on the roads of South Yorkshire.

“Any efforts we can take to create safer roads for everyone and less lives being lost is worth it.

“It is an offence to obstruct a camera safety member of staff from carrying out their duties, and action will be taken against those who do.

“This behaviour will not be tolerated, and the driver in this instance will be robustly dealt with.”