OSWESTRY’S mayor has praised the police for their efforts to safeguard the community after arrests were made as part of a county lines operation earlier this week.

Town Mayor Councillor John Price made the comments after five arrests were made in Oswestry on Monday as part of a ‘county lines’ drugs crackdown by West Mercia Police.

The five arrests were made on Monday as a joint-operation between West Mercia Police and Merseyside Police saw a total of 12 arrests made across the two regions.

Cllr Price helped to bring Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion to the town at the beginning of the year to attend a public meeting regarding crime-related issues in the town.

Mr Campion said he hoped to regain public confidence for his police force, and added he was looking to invest in the force to increase officer numbers and visibility.

Cllr Price insists it is pleasing to see action being taken to back up the assurances made by the PCC.

He said: “Mr Campion assured us there would be a good police presence in the town and there would be a good response to county lines and resident’s concerns.

“These arrests and the action taken looks good especially after those assurances were made to us by Mr Campion at the meeting in February.

“We obviously thank the police a huge amount for their tireless efforts in tackling crime and safeguarding the community of all ages, but the younger generation in particular.

“Their continued work helps to make our town a safe place for the younger generation to grow up in.

“We may not always be blessed with police numbers, but it’s nice to see the work is being done.”

Cllr Price added he believes it is important for all communities to feel the benefits of the police force.

“All communities should have these assurances and should feel safe living in their own towns or villages,” he said.

“They should all benefit from these assurances.”

“We really hope they can continue to have a positive impact on the community in keeping the town safe.”

To report concerns about county lines ring 101 or information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.