42 arrested as part of drug-crime crackdown in Avon and Somerset

Operations were part of a joint action involving forces across the South West

Published 5th Apr 2023

42 people were arrested last week for offences, including drug supply, possession and trafficking as part of a police operation in Avon and Somerset.

As well as the arrests, 16 disruptions related to County Lines were made, and 30 stop and searches were conducted.

Officers in Avon and Somerset also seized £91,970 worth of cash related to drug crime, and £65,200 worth of drugs, including a significant amount of cocaine.

Superintendent Steve Kendall who led the force’s operation said: “These results show how seriously we take drug offences in Avon and Somerset."

"The harm they cause is significant and far reaching. We are determined to ensure that our region is a hostile environment for criminals who bring harm to our communities and prey on vulnerable people for illegal profit."

“Whilst our work tackling these types of crimes and criminals is happening all year round, these weeks of intensified activity with our colleagues across the South West are a good opportunity to send a message to criminals that we do work together to gather intelligence, and we will find you.”

It comes as part of a wider South West operation - which led to the seizure of over £700,000 worth of Class A and B drugs, 173 weapons, and the execution of 31 warrants on properties and individuals linked to drug supply.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.