POLICE have vowed to continue its increased patrols in the Pinehurst area as part of a crackdown on drugs and anti-social behaviour, after already carrying out 40 stop and searches on youths.

They are particularly concerned that children are getting caught up in criminal activity and are appealing to parents to be vigilant.

Officers have arrested nine young people for offences including possession with intent to supply class A drugs, possession of an offensive weapon, affray, driving felonies, a failing to appear warrant and possession of class B drugs.

A variety of weapons has also been seized including knuckle dusters, knife, claw hammer and a telescopic baton.

Patrols have also taken 12 children home resulting in officers having to explain to their parents what they had been up to.

Police have also had to utilise a dispersal order in particular parts of Pinehurst.

Sgt Caroline Burt, who is one of the senior officers in charge of the Swindon North Community Policing Team, said: “The ongoing police activities in Pinehurst are our efforts to tackle the problems of groups of young people – many of whom are just young children - causing anti-social behaviour, drug running, carrying weapons and generally being intimidating.

“I am concerned that these youngsters are roaming the streets and their parents don’t seem to know what they are up to. I would appeal to the mums and dads of the community to help us deal with these groups by monitoring where their children are, if only for their own safety.

“We are working with partner agencies like children’s services, the youth offending team and the housing department to tackle these issues which, although are not unique to Pinehurst, are causing some difficulties at this time for the people who live in this area.

“Our aim is also to help and protect those young children who are often vulnerable and have got caught up in anti-social behaviour and criminality. We have contacted those families whose children are found to be involved; we are also working closely with children’s services to safeguard those young people.

“I would like to thank local people for their patience so far as well their useful information which helps us deal with these issues - I hope that support can continue as it’s vital in our work in the community.

“Although the operation in this part of Swindon has been successful so far - it’s far from over.

“We will continue our work to make Pinehurst a safer place to live once more.”

There continues to be an issue with bicycle and motorbike thefts in the area which has seen 15 motorcycles seized along with four push-bikes.

A lot of the time the vehicles are being destroyed after they have been stolen before the police can get to them.