United against drug crime: South West Police join forces to tackle drug crime

Last week (30 September – 6 October) we joined our colleagues from across the South West – Devon and Cornwall Police, Dorset Police, Gloucestershire Police and Wiltshire Police, along with the South West Regional Organized Crime Unit (SWROCU –) in a coordinated effort to combat drug-related crime on our roads and in our communities.

The operation aimed to disrupt drug markets, dismantle organized crime groups and protect our communities from the harm associated with drug crime, including serious violence and anti-social behaviour. By sharing intelligence and resources, agents carried out targeted actions such as:

• Intelligence-controlled vehicle stops

• Search warrants on properties suspected of drug activity

• High visibility patrols in areas known for drug crime

• Community engagement events to educate the public about the risks of drug-related crime

During the week, results included:

• 117 arrests for drug-related offences, including possession, supply, trafficking, importation of drugs and drink-driving

• 19 people charged with violations to date

• The seizure of almost 400 kg of suspected class A drugs and cannabis, along with a large number of ecstasy pills

• More than 55,000 euros in cash was seized probably related to drug crime

• 109 education and involvement events with local communities and schools

• At least 23 adults and children secured after vulnerability checks

In Avon and Somerset alone, officers arrested 18 people for drug-related offences, executed a number of intelligence-led warrants and seized more than 130kg of cannabis and 14kg of suspected harmful Class A drugs.

One vehicle stop in Bristol resulted in two men being charged with possession of class A and B drugs with intent to supply and possessing a bladed article in a public place, with one of them also charged for allegedly firearms possession.

In Bath, the execution of a warrant by Bath and North East Somerset Police teams, based on intelligence received and gathered, led to the arrest of a 30-year-old man on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a controlled class B drug and possession of a prohibited weapon (zombie-style knife). He has since been released under investigation.

In Taunton, a 24-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman were arrested after community police officers in Taunton executed a drug diversion warrant in the Corporation Street area of ​​the city.

During a search of the property, suspected cocaine, ketamine, cannabis and drug stash equipment was found, along with a number of weapons including brass knuckles and a zombie-style knife. Mobile phones and cash were seized, and a dog suspected of belonging to a banned breed (XL bully) was taken to kennels.

Both occupants were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a Class A drug, possession with intent to supply a Class B drug, possession of an offensive weapon in a private location and possession/maintenance of a prohibited breed. They are currently released pending investigation.

Assistant Chief Constable Jon Cummins from Avon and Somerset Police, who led this round of the operation, said: “Criminals are exploiting our region’s roads to smuggle drugs, cash, weapons and vulnerable people into our communities. They benefit from the misery of drug crime, while our communities suffer. We will not accept this.

“Last week we collectively focused on creating a difficult environment for criminals to operate in. Our road policing units stopped vehicles suspected of being involved in drug crime, resulting in the seizure of drugs, weapons and cash. Meanwhile, our community policing teams worked in communities, executing arrest warrants where drug activity was suspected and protecting people living in those areas from drug-related problems.

“The information provided by the public was vital to the success of the operation and I would like to thank everyone who shared information with us. You know your community best. If you suspect illegal drug activity is taking place, please report it directly to the police or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers, as your vigilance will help us protect you and those around you. Even a small piece of information could be the missing piece we need to disrupt an organized criminal network or protect a vulnerable individual.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody said:

“I am pleased to hear about the results achieved by this latest operation, disrupting criminals who operate roads to transport illicit drugs and money through our region and the wider South West.

“The success of Avon and Somerset Police in tackling drug-related crime often depends on information shared by the public. I would like to thank everyone who provided vital information for this operation or who has done so previously. While you may not always hear immediate updates on specific results, rest assured that your contributions are vital in helping officers arrest and charge those involved.

“Drug use leads to a range of problems, from human exploitation to anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and more. Prevention is the key to creating lasting change. I am grateful for the services I commission, which provide vital support to people struggling with addiction or at risk of drug involvement, and help prevent people from becoming involved.”

Here’s how to recognize the signs of criminal drug activity:

The community can play a crucial role in identifying potential drug-related activities and crime. Signs to look out for include:

• an increase in visitors or vehicles in a home

• new, unknown faces appear regularly

• changes in a resident’s behavior – becoming secretive, withdrawn or aggressive

• young people with inexplicable, expensive new things (clothes, telephones, etc.)

• residents or young people who have been missing for an extended period of time

• Young people who don’t seem familiar with your community or where they are

• suspicious vehicles – criminals often use cars, vans and other vehicles to traffic drugs, cash, weapons and vulnerable people. If you notice a vehicle repeatedly arriving and departing at odd times, parked in unusual locations, or driving suspiciously, note the make, model, color, and license plate number. Even a small detail can be the key to disrupting a criminal network.