CRIMINAL gangs have moved into Barnsley after the closure of two popular night-spots in Sheffield.
Gatecrasher was destroyed in an inferno last month and Niche nightclub also closed earlier this year.
Barnsley's Chief Superintendent Andy Brooke says the disappearance of the two clubs has had a knock-on effect in town - with organised gangs targeting clubs and bars around Barnsley.
The influx has resulted in the number of drug-related arrests going up.
In response Barnsley police launched Operation Block to send a 'not on our patch' message to the crooks.
Ch Supt Brooke said: "We are trying to address a developing problem in that we have seen a rise in the number of drug arrests.
"It's only low-level drug activity but we have seen a rise in possession of class-A drugs like cocaine and heroin in small amounts.
"One of the issues is the closure of Gatecrasher and Niche. A lot of individuals, including DJs, were coming to Barnsley and bringing across an undesirable clientele."
