Machete found in Northfleet bin sees boy, 15, arrested as police step up crime crackdown across Gravesend and Dartford
15:01, 16 August 2021
updated: 16:32, 16 August 2021
A teenage boy has been arrested after a machete was found dumped in a rubbish bin.
Police on patrol in Northfleet reportedly spotted a bag being thrown into a receptacle near Gordon Road and chased the 15-year-old down before arresting him on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon.
He has since been released pending further inquiries following the incident on July 23.
It comes as part of increased patrols and searches being carried out by police across Dartford and Gravesend.
More than 90 searches were carried out under powers put in place following a series of unconnected assaults in the area which give police rights to search anyone suspected of being involved in a crime.
An 18-year-old man was detained in Cranford Road, Dartford after he was accused of being in possession of suspected Class A drugs. He was released pending further inquiries and was also said to be riding an uninsured electric scooter which was seized.
A man suspected of driving while unfit through drugs was charged after a vehicle was pulled over in St Albans Road, Dartford.
"We will continue to target criminals who are intent on committing offences in the towns..."
Stephen Button, of Silver Birch Close, Dartford, was bailed to appear at Medway Magistrates' Court on August 26.
Two women aged 18 and 19 were arrested on suspicion of assault after an incident at a nightclub in Essex Road, Dartford at about 3am on Saturday, July 24.
The pair – from Welling and Erith respectively – were both given a caution for the offence.
Deputy divisional commander for north Kent, Supt Neil Loudon said: "These latest results are testament to our ongoing work and commitment to tackle violent crime in north Kent and beyond.
"We remain committed to preventing crime and ensuring Dartford and Gravesend remain safe towns in which to live, work and visit, and we will continue to target criminals who are intent on committing offences in the towns.
"We continue to work closely with our key community partners and our local Independent Police Advisory Group (IPAG) to ensure our policing response remains proportionate.
"My message remains the same to those who are coming to north Kent to commit crime and that is to think again."
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