MORE than 150 people in Winchester were stopped by police for drug searches over a three-month period, recent figures reveal.

Hampshire Police recently released its latest statistics on stop and searches, which covers July to September.

The figures show 81 per cent were drug-related. 

They also reveal that black people are six times more likely to be stopped by police than white people.

Chief inspector Korine Bishop said: “There has been an increase in the number of Stop & Search over the last two quarters. However this amount of Stop & Search is consistent with the same time last year. 

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“The largest proportion of our stops are around drugs, which sits at 81 per cent. The increase in these searches during the latest quarter is likely down to Boomtown Festival over the summer period, where in excess of 50,000 extra people come to Winchester. 

“We have also seen a focus on searches relating to theft offences, for which the majority will be linked to those we know are persistently shoplifting. This has been targeted with the use of CBO’s and so I am hoping for a drop over the next quarter. 

“We work closely with our Independent Advisory Group to scrutinise stops, ensuring they are lawful and proportionate. The group have not raised any concerns with our use of the powers.”

The total number of stops was 203, up from 159 in the previous three months. Arrests slightly rose, from 16 to 20. 

The reasons for the stops were: criminal damage - two, drugs - 167, firearms - two, going equipped - two, offensive weapon - six, stolen goods - 23 and other - three.