Police in Marche-en-Famenne, Luxembourg Province, announced on Wednesday that increased policing in the city centre had led to the arrest of 14 individuals for drug trafficking or possession.
The area's police recently intensified their presence in the city centre, in response to concern raised by residents and shopkeepers about disturbances and anti-social behaviour.
The enhanced police operation involved increased motorised, bicycle, and foot patrols during both by day and at night, according to a statement released on Wednesday.
“This measure seems to be paying off,” local police emphasised. In the past two weeks, they have apprehended two individuals caught selling drugs red-handed and twelve others found in possession of drugs. This led to 14 official reports and the arrest of two suspects, along with the seizure of 530 grammes of cannabis, two joints, two smartphones, €175, packaging materials, luxury accessories, and shoes.
Furthermore, the police apprehended seven individuals for public intoxication, issued a citation for noise disturbance, and fined two hospitality establishments for exceeding their closing hours. An investigation into assault was also launched following findings from CCTV footage.
Back in May, Mayor Nicolas Grégoire had taken a firm stance after several incidents —assaults, thefts, disturbances, and urban rodeos — were reported in the city centre. He announced plans to expand the camera network and requested the installation of new speed traps.
