On Wednesday (August 20), PC Pirr and PCSO Grybauskaite were out on a bicycle patrol, when they spotted someone they believed to be behaving suspiciously in the underpass near Ascupart Street.

After stopping a man, they located around 100 wraps of Class A drugs nearby, and a phone and quantity of cash were found when searching him.

A further search was carried out at his home, where we seized a large quantity of cash, and two further mobile phones.

We have charged Waheed Safi, 24, of Clovelly Road, Southampton with:

– Possession with intent to supply Crack Cocaine
– Possession of criminal property
– Failing to provide a sample for a Class A drug test while in custody

He appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court this morning, where he was remanded in custody to appear at Crown Court on September 19.

We want to reassure residents that we are fully aware of the ongoing concerns raised regarding anti-social behaviour and drug dealing in and around parts of Southampton.

In response, we have increased our police presence in affected areas and are working closely with our partners in the local authority to address the key issues raised by the community. Alongside immediate action, we are finalising long-term plans aimed at tackling these problems sustainably.

As part of our proactive approach, officers have been conducting regular patrols both in uniform and plain clothes to disrupt criminal activity and reassure residents.

Please continue to report any suspicious behaviour or criminal activity – your information is vital in helping us keep Southampton safe.

Thank you for your continued support.