Residents of Annesley Street in North Belfast say groups have been openly injecting drugs and drinking on the street for the past two years.

A local parent stated that people inject in the middle of the road near homes and leave used needles and empty cans on pavements and in gardens.

The same resident said groups become aggressive when asked to leave and move a short distance when police arrive before returning once officers depart.

Councillor Paul McCusker said he has arranged a meeting with police, residents and Choice Housing to address the problem.

McCusker added that the issue forms part of a wider drug problem in Belfast that requires policy-level action rather than relocation of users.

Inspector Hamilton said police work with partner agencies to clean sites and urged the public to report suspected drug paraphernalia to police on 101 or Belfast City Council on 028 9027 0469 without touching the items.

Hamilton warned that discarded needles pose risks to children and stated anyone suspected of drug supply can expect arrest and court proceedings.