In a continued effort to reduce antisocial behaviour in the borough, Barking and Dagenham Council has been involved in another joint operation with the police.

Taking place in Dagenham Heathway, the operation saw a large number of police officers and council Community Safety Enforcement Officers patrol Dagenham Heathway and surrounding areas.

The patrols saw officers visit several places including Dagenham Heathway Station, Broad Street, Dagenham Park School, Millard Terrace and Old Dagenham Park.

The aim of the operation was to tackle a variety of antisocial behaviour issues, such as street drinking, begging and anybody causing a nuisance as well as showcasing a high presence in the area.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “We’ve got a strong relationship with the police, and we will continue to work together to tackle issues in the borough.

“We’re going to make sure these joint operations happen regularly and that we’re tackling the areas that residents are highlighting as places of concern.”

A/Chief Inspector Louise Jackson said ““We fully understand how crime and anti-social behaviour can blight the lives of residents and local businesses, affecting the wellbeing of all communities. 

“We are committed to working with our partners to deal with matters that cause concern against our communities”

The police also had a sniffer dog at Dagenham Heathway Station, which they used to target people suspected of carrying drugs into the borough.

In total, the operation saw 21 people stop and searched, one person arrested, three people issued with warnings for possession of cannabis and three Antisocial Behaviour Warnings served.