TEENAGERS believed to be involved in gangs are being searched for weapons as part of a police crackdown.

Officers from Operation Redshank – which was set up in response to a series of firearms incidents in Derby between December 2007 and December 2008 – are patrolling the streets of Allenton.

The Derby Telegraph joined police on one of the patrols during which one 15-year-old boy – whom police believe has been involved in gang activity – was searched for weapons, but nothing was recovered.

Four other youths were stopped for offences including underage drinking, and police also used camcorders to record the behaviour of suspected gang members.

Detective Inspector Rob Massey said: "The aim was to provide reassurance to the local community that action is being taken against those involved in crime and to make individuals think twice about getting involved in gangs."

During the patrols, which covered Osmaston Road and Flint Street, children as young as 13 were seen gesturing gang signs of the Allenton-based A1 Crew.

Police community support officer Gary Cawley said: "We probably get around 10 calls a week relating to anti-social behaviour in Flint Street. In the past few months it has regularly been a priority area for us.

"A lot of the lads are fringe members of the A1 Crew. Some have been involved in various bits of public order, but mainly anti-social behaviour. They intimidate the residents – people that do call us only do so on an anonymous basis.

"The residents keep their heads down and try not to get on the wrong side of the youths. If anything, they almost try and befriend them as a way of keeping on their good side."

The four youths who were stopped for underage drinking had their details taken by officers. Their parents will be contacted about their behaviour.

Residents told the Derby Telegraph they welcomed the patrols. One woman, who asked not to be named, said: "The police try to move the kids who cause problems away from the area.

"The problem is they come back as soon as the officers have gone. Not all of the kids are bad. Those who say they are from the A1 Crew cause the problems.

"Money has been spent in other areas to give the kids something to do. That needs to be done here as well."

Earlier in the day, 20 police officers took part in a drugs raid at a house in Osmaston Park Road, Allenton, believed to be linked to the A1 Crew. Officers recovered drugs during the raid.

A 29-year-old woman was arrested at the scene on suspicion of possessing a quantity of class A and B drugs. She was released on police bail, pending further inquiries.

Det Insp Massey added: "The high visibility operation had a positive impact and it is something we want to repeat on a regular basis in the future. We're still looking to target, prevent and deter people from getting involved in gun or gang-related activity."

Anyone with information about gun or gang crime is asked to contact Operation Redshank on Derby 613202.