Sovereign Base Areas Police in the west of the island have made 26 arrests in the past week, including three on August 16 for drugs and immigration offences following a vehicle stop.
During the vehicle search, officers discovered ‘drug related paraphernalia’ and the driver tested positive for crystal meth.
His two passengers were also found to be illegal immigrants and were arrested.
During this period, a woman was also remanded in custody following her arrest for possession of drugs with intent to supply.
Statistics show the SBA Polce also issued 30 Fixed Penalty Notices, 47 written cautions, carried out 30 breath and three drug tests.
The police’s Marine Unit maintained its high-visibility, conducting 25 boat patrols, checking 46 vessels and 158 people during the week.
Despite the relative success of the SBA Police operations over what was an extremely busy Public Holiday weekend, Temporary Superintendent Melina Papagregoriou was keen to pay her respects to the individual that tragically lost his life on August 15.
She said: “The holiday weekend was also marked by the tragic incident at Lady’s Mile Beach, where our Marine Unit responded to an emergency involving two persons in the sea.
“Both individuals were recovered by our officers and immediate first aid was provided, with the assistance of the emergency medical services. Tragically, despite the efforts of those involved, one of the individuals sadly died.
“This tragic incident is also a reminder of the importance of exercising caution at sea, particularly during this very busy summer period. We extend our sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased.”
And in looking ahead to the rest of the summer, she continued: “Overall, our focus remains on prevention as well as enforcement. We want people to enjoy the summer period and our beaches safely, but we will continue to take firm action where offences are identified.”
