Special police constables raided an address in Bingley in a search for a suspected drug dealer.

A 25-year-old man and two boys aged 17 and 15 were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs after an amount of cannabis was discovered.

They were taken to Keighley police station for questioning following yesterday's raid, in which sniffer dogs were used.

The sting was led by special constables who had received intelligence that drugs were being supplied to schoolchildren from the premises.

Acting Inspector Paul Harkin said: "We have found a quantity of drugs thanks to the dogs. This operation went fairly well and the success is partly down to the special police constables."

Operation Keel was also part of a campaign to recruit more special constables to the Keighley Police division.

Special Section Officer Tony Hindle, 55, who has served for nearly 40 years, said: "This isn't a soft option where they just have you directing traffic.

"I have been shot, stabbed with a spear and involved in a head-on collision at 105 miles per hour.

"I do it because there is a great deal of camaraderie and pride in the service. Once you stop getting a buzz out of putting the uniform on it is time to stop - that has never happened."

Bradford Council truancy officers were also involved in the raid and found two juveniles at the address who should have been in school.

  • Anyone who wants to apply to become a special constable should contact West Yorkshire Police on (01924) 292906.

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