On the night of Saturday, May 24, Faheem Kadodia, 36, of All Saints Road, Gloucester, was arrested and charged for carrying a knife in Gloucester city centre. Kadodia faces charges for possession of a blade or sharp pointed article in a public place.
He appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, May 26, where he was released on bail ahead of his next hearing on June 30. In a related development, a 20-year-old man from Stonehouse was also arrested on suspicion of causing a public order offence on St Catherine Street.
This arrest was part of Operation Comet, a policing initiative aimed at reducing crime and enhancing safety in Gloucester’s nightlife. Since Christmas, the operation has been deployed four times, focusing on combating youth crime, anti-social behaviour, violence against women and girls, and drug-related offences during busy night hours.
READ MORE: Miles Owen Opens Up About His Dad Clive ‘Slowing Down’ on the Family Farm
READ MORE: Get These 2 Free Health Tests Done as Soon as You Turn 66, Expert Advises
Throughout the night, officers conducted nine stop searches, uncovering cocaine and crystal meth in two cases, and cannabis and ketamine in three others. Several individuals received community resolutions, with one person reported for possession of a Class A drug.
Police officers also patrolled several nightlife venues including the Lord High Constable and Regal, where a passive drugs dog accompanied their walk-throughs to detect illegal substances.
Sergeant Oliver Padfield of the Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team commented on the operation’s success: “Feedback from the public and our partner agencies has been overwhelmingly positive. Our presence on Saturday nights provides valuable community engagement during one of the busiest times, deterring would-be offenders from entering Gloucester. Those who disregard this face the consequences.”
He added, “Our continued efforts are focused on ensuring that residents and visitors feel safe when enjoying a night out in Gloucester.”
The operation is supported by local organizations such as Night Angels, Street Pastors, Night Safe officers, street medics, and licensed premises, all working together to maintain a secure and welcoming environment.