14/10/2026
A multi-agency operation aimed at protecting students from drug-related harm during Freshers' Week saw Lincolnshire Police work alongside the University of Lincoln, British Transport Police (BTP), Crimestoppers and local partners to tackle those involved in the supply and distribution of drugs across Lincoln.
Operation Shaker focused on disrupting drug activity in and around the city, while raising awareness among students about the risks associated with drugs, including ketamine, M**A and other so-called "party drugs".
As part of the campaign, officers and partners attended Freshers' Week events to engage directly with students, provide advice and encourage reporting. A Crimestoppers campaign targeting ketamine use formed a key part of the operation, supported by awareness materials, text message campaigns and promotional items including reusable cups, phone holders, torches and bottle openers carrying safety messaging.
Neighbourhood policing officers and partners also worked with venues across the city to display posters promoting drug awareness and highlighting the support available to those who may be vulnerable or affected by substance misuse.
On 22 September, PCSOs Bradley Kerry and Matt Flack attended the University of Lincoln Freshers' Fair, where students were invited to share their thoughts about safety in the city. Using sticky notes placed on display boards, students highlighted what makes them feel safe and unsafe while studying and socialising in Lincoln, helping officers better understand the issues that matter most to them.
Throughout the operation, officers have been identifying and targeting those involved in the supply of drugs, while ensuring that individuals found to be vulnerable or at risk receive the support they need. Where appropriate, people have been referred to specialist services including the Recovery Partnership and university wellbeing services.
The operation also included work to protect students from wider criminal exploitation, including county lines activity and other forms of organised drug supply.
Lincolnshire Police's Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) team supported the operation by speaking with businesses and partners across the city to identify any concerns around the safety of women and girls and to promote awareness of issues that may affect students.
PC Molisa McGinnis, Lincolnshire Police's dedicated University of Lincoln officer, said:
"This has been a fantastic partnership operation focused on tackling serious drug offences in Lincoln city centre and helping to ensure students can enjoy their university experience safely.
"We know that the vast majority of students come to Lincoln to study, make friends and enjoy everything the city has to offer. By working closely with our partners, we are taking action against those who seek to profit from the supply of drugs while making sure support is available for anyone who may need it.
"Freshers' Week is an exciting time, and we want students to feel confident that they can enjoy themselves safely, make informed choices and know where to turn if they have concerns."
Detective Superintendent Stacie Gross from the British Transport Police County Lines Taskforce said:
“This was fantastic opportunity to work with our partners to raise awareness among the public and businesses of the signs of child exploitation and the methods County Lines gangs use to entrap victims.
“We know these gangs exploit children and vulnerable people to move their drugs across the county using the rail network. That’s why safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do as a Taskforce, ensuring those identified as being exploited are treated as victims and get the best support possible.
“As well as making 100 informal safeguarding interventions, which could mark a pivotal point in these young lives, three teenagers were identified as being directly at risk of exploitation and fast track measures were put into place to safeguard them.
“Passengers who spot the signs of child exploitation or drug supply on the railway are urged to report it to us by texting 61016.”
The operation was delivered in partnership with British Transport Police, the University of Lincoln and Crimestoppers as part of a shared commitment to keeping students safe and reducing drug-related harm across the city.
Operation Shaker delivered a number of positive outcomes, including:
• A 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class B drugs with intent to supply. He was released under investigation. Officers seized a mobile phone, approximately £100 in cash, and a quantity of Class B drugs.
• A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply. He was issued with an adult conditional caution. Officers seized a mobile phone, approximately £300 in cash, a quantity of Class A drugs, and a flick knife.
• Nathan Buckberry, 20, of Blankney Crescent, Lincoln, was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and a public order offence. He was later charged with assaulting a police officer and a public order offence.
• Harley Shaw, 28, of no fixed address, was arrested on suspicion of possessing a Class A controlled drug. A quantity of Class A drugs and a knife were seized. He has since been recalled to prison.
• Aiden Taylor, 32, of Stanley Place, Lincoln, was arrested on recall to prison and remanded into custody.
• A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment and has been released on conditional police bail pending further enquiries.
• A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and a racially aggravated public order offence.
• Zak Maguire, 29, of no fixed address, was arrested and charged with possession of a Class A controlled drug and grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.
Anyone with information about drug supply or drug-related crime can contact Lincolnshire Police via 101 or report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the Crimestoppers website.
