'We are at breaking point' says High Town resident as two arrests made in police clampdown

In a statement, a Beds Police spokesman said two people were arrested in High Town after a week of action - one person on suspicion of bicycle theft and another wanted for failing to appear at court.

Officers also conducted nine stop searches, which found two people in possession of drugs, and issued a number of warnings for drugs possession and soliciting.

But one worried resident said that anti-social behaviour on Wenlock Road and the Paths Estate was becoming "unbearable".

She told Luton News: "So many people around here just cannot cope anymore, we are at breaking point.

"We are sending off emails continually and others are phoning about this around-the-clock drug den near our homes.

"No-one is getting a minute's peace. Drug users, pros and their customers are up the stairs all day and night, dealing is taking place on an almost industrial level and every pathway around here has junkies waiting for their fixes.

"They throw stones at the windows and scream and shout."

Beds Police is focusing on High Town as part of its 'Safer Streets' project with Luton Borough Council, tackling issues such as theft, exploitation of sex workers and anti-social behaviour.

Sgt Sarah Hudson said: “High Town is home to lots of people with many successful businesses and it’s important that our community know that we are dedicated to tackling these issues that have such an impact on their everyday lives.

“We will continue to work with our partners targeting issues to reduce criminality in High Town and make people proud to live there.”

A Luton Borough Council spokesman added: "We note the concerns that have been expressed by local residents and we are working hard, in partnership with the police, to deal with the issues raised.

"Regular street cleansing takes place in the area with priority given to removing items that relate to on-street sexual exploitation.

"The council and the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office has obtained more than £400,000 in funding for the High Town area for security improvements including CCTV and better street lighting which are intended to help design out crime.

"Residents are urged to get involved with the safer streets funding initiative and can email [email protected] with their suggestions.

"Anyone witnessing incidents of crime, anti-social behaviour or anyone being exploited should contact the police on 101 or 999 if it's an emergency."