A man has been charged after police officers seized a significant quantity of Class A drugs and cash during a patrol in Southampton.
On Wednesday, 20 August, PC Pitt and Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Grybauskaite were conducting a bicycle patrol when they noticed a man acting suspiciously in the underpass near Ascupart Street. After stopping the individual, officers discovered approximately 100 wraps of suspected Class A drugs nearby. A search of the man led to the recovery of a mobile phone and a quantity of cash.
A subsequent search at the man’s home address yielded further evidence, including a large amount of cash and two additional mobile phones.
Waheed Safi, 24, of Clovelly Road, Southampton, has now been charged with possession with intent to supply crack cocaine, possession of criminal property, and failing to provide a sample for a Class A drug test while in custody.
Safi appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning, where he was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Crown Court on 19 September.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We want to reassure residents that we are fully aware of ongoing concerns regarding anti-social behaviour and drug dealing in parts of Southampton. In response, we have increased police presence in affected areas and are working closely with our partners in the local authority to address the issues raised by the community.
“Alongside immediate action, we are finalising long-term plans aimed at tackling these problems sustainably. Officers have been conducting regular patrols, both in uniform and plain clothes, to disrupt criminal activity and reassure residents.”
Hampshire Police have urged anyone with information about drug-related activity in their area to come forward. All information can be given anonymously.
