20 arrests in Downham Tavern drugs raid (From News Shopper)

20 arrests in Downham Tavern drugs raid

1:09pm Monday 25th February 2013 in News By Mark Chandler

20 arrests in Downham Tavern drugs raid

TWENTY people were arrested following a drugs raid at the Downham Tavern pub last week.

Officers investigating alleged drug dealing executed a search warrant at the Downham Way boozer on February 22 at around 5pm.

Using specialist equipment and sniffer dogs, more than 40 customers were searched on the premises.

Seven men were arrested on suspicion of possessing controlled drugs with the intention to supply, one for an alleged firearms offence, and several more on suspicion of carrying offensive weapons and public order offences.

A number of men continue to help police with their enquiries.

Lewisham Police has also instigated a review of the licence which has been agreed by the council.

A police spokeswoman said: "Lewisham’s licensed premises must operate within their stated times and conditions. It is unacceptable that this level of criminality goes on in any premises.

"It will certainly not go unchallenged by Lewisham Police. We rely on information from the community as well as our own intelligence led operations and patrols.

"If any member of the public has information regarding a licensed premises which they think requires police attention, then do not hesitate to contact Sgt Jim Abbott at Lewisham Police station or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."