22 people arrested during major drugs operation in Penzance, Truro and St Austell
Police say they seized cannabis, crack cocaine, amphetamines and heroin
Police have revealed they made 22 arrests following a major operation to tackle illegal drug activity in Cornwall.
The stings took place last week and were mainly focussed on St Austell, Truro and Penzance.
Officers say they seized cannabis, crack cocaine, amphetamines and heroin, as well as cash and weapons.
The three-day operation involved Neighbourhood Police, the Roads Policing Team, the No Excuse Team, Project Servator and the Proactive Disruption Team. It was supported by British Transport Police.
Police say a number of safeguarding measures have been put in place to support adults and children who were identified as vulnerable.
What did the operation find?
• 22 people were arrested on suspicion of offences including possession of Class A drugs, possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, driving whilst unfit through drugs, possession of a bladed weapon.
• Drugs seized in quantities for street dealing included cannabis, crack cocaine, heroin and amphetamine, as well as illegally held prescription drugs.
• Around six thousand pounds in cash was seized
• A knife and crossbow were located and seized
• Six drivers were reported to court for driving offences
• 36 traffic offence tickets were issued
Five people have since been charged to court and 17 released whilst enquiries are ongoing.
Cornwall Commander, Chief Superintendent Ben Deer said: "This work is part of day-to-day policing but by teams from across the county coming together for a period of intensified activity, we have a bigger presence and a bigger impact.
"Our message is clear - we will not stop. We will pursue those who intend to commit these crimes here and we will safeguard and support the vulnerable in our communities.
"A key part of being able to carry out this work is what happens behind the scenes to build our intelligence picture. In part this is done information gathered by officers and partner agencies, but crucially, it’s also down to people telling us what is happening in their communities.
"No one should put up with illegal drug activity and the associated crimes and behaviours, so I urge anyone with information, no matter how big or small, to please report it".
'We can only be successful with our community's help'
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: This type of activity is exactly what our communities expect to see in Cornwall.
"No-one likes to see blatant drug dealing seemingly left to flourish before our eyes. We are working across the South West collectively to drive drugs out of our villages, towns and cities.
"We can only be successful with our community's intolerance to drugs so please do continue to contact Crimestoppers if you know who, where and when drug dealing is happening on 0800 555 111".
How can I report suspected drug crime?
You can report information to us through our non-emergency channels or, alternatively, you can contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
For help and advice please visit the Devon & Cornwall Police website.