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Message From Inspector 1144 Head |
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Firstly, my apologies that it has been two weeks since my last update. This has been due to a combination of annual leave and operational commitments and, as a result, this update is more extensive than usual.
22nd July – Significant Drug Seizure, Gainsborough On 22nd July, officers stopped a vehicle entering Gainsborough and discovered a significant quantity of suspected Class A drugs. The driver, a 35-year-old man, has been released on bail whilst enquiries continue.
22nd July – Report of Suspicious Activity, Gainsborough Also on 22nd July, officers responded to reports that a man was taking photographs of children in a park in Gainsborough. Officers attended promptly, spoke with the individual involved, and carried out all necessary enquiries. These enquiries established that no criminal offence had been committed.
Given the understandable concern amongst local residents, inaccurate information subsequently circulated on social media. Officers acted quickly to address and correct this misinformation.
I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight that, whilst Gainsborough has seen an increase in foreign nationals residing within the area, there has been no corresponding increase in crime linked to this growing population. Gainsborough benefits greatly from a well-established and successful Multicultural Group, which has played a vital role in supporting individuals to integrate into the community. Many members regularly volunteer their time to make positive contributions locally, including participating in litter-picking initiatives, an issue frequently raised by residents and local councillors.
27th July – Drugs Warrant, Caistor On 27th July, officers from the Market Rasen Neighbourhood Policing Team executed a drugs warrant at an address on Horsemarket, Caistor. A small quantity of Class C drugs, believed to be consistent with personal use, was recovered.
The warrant was made possible through intelligence provided by members of the local community. Tackling drug supply remains one of the team's key priorities and I would encourage residents to continue sharing information with us. Intelligence can be provided through Lincs Alert, by reporting incidents directly, speaking with local officers, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.
Fraud Prevention Advice We are currently seeing an increase in reports relating to both romance fraud and gift card scams.
In cases of romance fraud, offenders often create false identities on social media platforms or dating websites and quickly establish a relationship with victims. After gaining trust, they frequently request money, claiming it is needed for emergencies, medical expenses, or travel costs. These scams are particularly harmful as they exploit victims emotionally and can have long-lasting effects on confidence and trust.
I would urge all residents to be cautious of any requests for money from individuals they have only communicated with online and have never met in person.
We are also continuing to see reports of gift card scams. These often involve fraudsters impersonating high-profile public figures or celebrities and promising substantial financial returns in exchange for gift cards. These claims are entirely fraudulent.
Please remember that legitimate public figures will never ask members of the public to send gift cards or money in return for financial rewards. If you receive such a request, do not engage and do not send any money or gift cards.
If you believe you have been the victim of either of these scams, please contact us. We will endeavour to arrange for an officer to visit and provide appropriate support and advice.
3rd August – Fail to Stop Incidents, Gainsborough On 3rd August, officers dealt with two separate incidents in Gainsborough involving drivers who failed to stop for police. In both cases, officers were able to safely pursue, stop and detain the drivers. Both individuals have since been released on bail whilst further enquiries are carried out.
Large Cannabis Grow Discovered, Gainsborough A significant cannabis cultivation operation was recently uncovered on Bridge Street, Gainsborough. More than 1,200 cannabis plants were discovered within the premises.
Investigations revealed that electricity had been illegally abstracted to power the operation, creating a serious risk to neighbouring properties and anyone entering the building. Northern Powergrid assisted officers in making the premises safe and, during their assessment, discovered that the main fuse box was melting. This serves as a stark reminder of the substantial risks that cannabis grows pose to local communities. Enquiries remain ongoing.
You can read our press release on this here: Large cannabis grow discovered in Gainsborough | Lincolnshire Police
Community Engagement and Partnership Working PCSO Harry Felstead-Solley recently attended a local LGBTQ+ breakfast event, providing an opportunity to engage directly with members of the community and hear their experiences firsthand.
The event generated a number of open and constructive conversations about policing, trust, and the reporting of hate crime. These discussions are invaluable in helping us better understand community concerns, strengthen relationships, and ensure all members of our community feel listened to and supported.
Engagement and partnership work also continues with the Lincolnshire Traveller Initiative following a successful funding bid submitted by the local Neighbourhood Policing Team through the Home Office Serious Violence funding programme.
The Lincolnshire Traveller Initiative has been awarded responsibility for delivering the project and will work closely alongside the Neighbourhood Policing Team throughout its implementation. This demonstrates our ongoing commitment to engaging with communities that can be harder to reach, improving understanding, and building stronger relationships for the future.
Thank you for your continued support. As always, if you have concerns, information to share, or would like to discuss issues affecting your community, please do not hesitate to speak with your local Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Officer recruitment is currently open. If you are interested in learning more about joining Lincolnshire Police, please visit our website: Apply now to become a police officer | Lincolnshire Police
For residents in West Lindsey who are considering a career in policing, I would be happy to offer advice and guidance throughout the application process. I can be contacted at:
To sign up for Lincs Alert, please visit: | ||
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