From the http://www.kentlive.news  14 January, 2011.

Clean sheet after seven pubs raided.

A "MOB-HANDED" police operation to crackdown on drug use in Sheppey pubs has left a bitter taste in the mouths of some landlords.

At 9.15pm on Thursday, December 9, simultaneous raids were carried out at the "Prince of Waterloo," the "Highlander" and the "Kings Arms" in Minster.

Later that night The "Shurland Hotel" and the "Castle Inn" in Eastchurch and The "Nore" and the "Castle Tavern" in Sheerness were visited by officers and drugs dogs.

Over the course of the evening, just three men were searched – one each in The "Shurland," the "Castle Tavern" and the "King's Arms" – but none were found to be carrying drugs.

Diane Potter, landlady of the "Castle Tavern" in Sheerness High Street, said such raids alienate pub owners.

Mrs Potter said: "It just feels like we are in trouble whether they find anything or they don't. It is a little bit intimidating.

"I appreciate they have a job to do and I understand the element of surprise is what they needed but it would be nice if they worked with us a bit better."

Sergeant Stefan Martin of the Island Neighbourhood Team said: "Although we didn't find anyone in possession of drugs on this occasion we found evidence of drug use in some of the pubs. We will continue to work with the licensing officer and pub staff to prevent drug use and violence."

Mr Martin said police will work with landlords to "create safe environments in which our communities can socialise".