Norwich police tackle problems near St Augustine's Church

Norwich police have increased the number of targeted foot patrols around The Lathes and St Augustine's Church in recent weeks - with officers present throughout the day, including evenings. 

Police have stepped up efforts to tackle drug use and anti-social behaviour in two city hotspots (Image: Newsquest)

The escalation comes as locals complain of an increase in drug activity and anti-social behaviour in the area.

"Following routine patrols, we’ve responded to local feedback from residents around an increase in drug activity and anti-social behaviour in The Lathes and St Augustine’s Church," Norwich Inspector Terri Cooper-Barnes said.

READ MORE: 'There just aren't the resources to cope': 10pc rise in city's anti-social behaviour

"Therefore, we have increased focussed foot patrols over the last two weeks to address this.

"We will continue to work with residents and partner agencies in response to this and encourage people to report any incidents to us on 101 or via the Norfolk Police website."

Inspector Terri Cooper-Barnes (Image: Norfolk Police)

READ MORE: Boy racer clampdown could be WIDENED as battle rages on

Cases of anti-social behaviour across the city have risen by 10pc in the past year.

Data compiled from Norfolk Constabulary's crime map has revealed an increase from 255 offences in May 2022 to 281 in May 2023.

Almost half of the cases took place in Norwich East, while the north of the city saw incidents rise by more than 42pc.