The team running a Moray venue has claimed that arrests at the hall last weekend have sent out a clear message drug use “will not be tolerated” there.
Two women and four men were arrested on Saturday night at Elgin Town Hall for drug offences while attempting to attend a techno gig.
Yesterday, directors at the community-run venue explained the arrests were not an “embarrassment” to the group – but instead showed they were prepared to take a zero-tolerance approach to illegal and anti-social behaviour.
Mike Devenney, chairman of Elgin Town Hall for the Community, said: “The only ‘shame’ and ‘embarrassment’ on the night should have been felt by those who tried to enter the premises knowingly carrying substances that are illegal.”
Police praised the work of the organisers and other agencies following the weekend operation, which involved those attending being apprehended on arrival to the venue.
Donnie Squair, Elgin Town Hall’s events coordinator, said: “We want to say thank you to the police and the security for their presence to make sure that events run safely. These arrests show they are doing the job well and are protecting the public.
“Elgin Town Hall is a completely drug-free zone. This is our intention as we want it to be a safe environment for our staff and community and welcoming for everyone.”
About 300 people attended Saturday night’s event at Elgin Town Hall. In addition to the six arrests, inquiries are continuing into suspicious items taken from four others.
Last night, Elgin City South councillor Graham Leadbitter praised the work done by the venue and other agencies as a “model of good practice” for others to follow.
He added: “There was excellent work by the town hall team and partners working with them to support a well-attended event and making it as safe as possible for the vast majority of responsible folk enjoying the night.”
Sergeant Scott Brander said: “A lot of hard work goes into organising events like this and we want to support organisers in ensuring they pass safely and with minimal disturbance to the surrounding community.”