In the early hours of the morning, police officers detained two men under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act following a stop-and-search operation in a public area.
The Encounter
According to officers, the incident began when they approached two men seated on a bench who appeared to be “messing with nuts and balloons” — a slang reference to the inhalation of nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Officers identified themselves as PC 1178 Dave Lovett and PC 979 Crown from Wisbech Police Station, noting that the area was already under surveillance due to known drug activity.
Both individuals were informed they were being detained under Section 23, which authorizes officers to search anyone suspected of possessing controlled substances. The men were instructed to stay put and comply with the search.
Arrest and Charges
Following the search, one man was arrested on suspicion of involvement in the supply of Class A and Class B drugs, as well as possession of criminal property. He was read the standard police caution:
“You do not have to say anything, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court.”
The arrest was officially logged at around 7:30 a.m.
Aftermath
Before being taken into custody, the suspect was allowed to collect some personal belongings. The exchange ended with him calling out to his father, asking to be picked up — a moment that highlighted the sudden and unsettling nature of the arrest.
About the Author
