A SUSPECTED drugs den in Basingstoke has been shut down after the police issued a closure order following reports of anti-social behaviour and disorder.

Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court approved the order under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 for an address in Worting Road.

Hampshire Constabulary applied for the order after working with colleagues from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to address reports of criminal behaviour and disorder, including drugs offences and anti-social behaviour, at the property.

 The order lasts for three months and means it is a criminal offence to enter the address during this period unless authorised by the police.

 Sergeant Trevor Taylor, of Basingstoke Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This action has been taken following increasing number of reports of criminal behaviour associated with the address in recent months.

“The activities of occupants at this property have had a huge impact on those people living nearby and beyond.

“This order sends out a strong message that we will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and will use every available power to stop it.

“The information we receive from the public is vital in making our community a safe place to live.

“If you are concerned about drug-related crime or anti-social behaviour where you live, then please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101.

“Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.”