22 people arrested in Gloucestershire as part of police drug operation
Cash and weapons have also been seized.
Last updated 5th Apr 2023
22 people have been arrested in Gloucestershire as part of a week-long police operation to target drugs.
Cash and weapons have also been seized.
In the county, a mixture of class A and B drugs were seized with an estimated street value of around £30,000.
Alongside this, seven and a half thousand pounds in cash and £15,000 worth of tobacco was recovered.
The operation also saw the closure of eight shops, where drugs were being illegally sold
Across the South West, more than three quarters of a million pounds worth of illegal drugs have been taken off the streets - with more than 120 people arrested.
Superintendent Paul Keasey, Gloucestershire Constabulary, who led the operation, said: "This has been an outstanding week of action with some fantastic results which demonstrate the value of the five forces working together and sends out the strongest message possible that the South West is no place for drugs.
"Not only have we been able to recover a large quantity of drugs and disrupted gangs and individuals who deal in them, we have also taken a number of dangerous weapons off the streets, making the region a much safer place. As well as commending the officers who took part, I want to thank the public who have come forward in their numbers with the information that has made these operations possible and contributed so much to their success.
"Together with our partners we have also sought to strengthen the support and safeguarding activity to the vulnerable, as well as providing educational material to schools detailing the issues and impact of taking drugs.
"The support of the public throughout the operation has been fantastic. Many of the activities delivered were as a result of concerns raised by, or using information provided by, the public. Their support and willingness to share their concerns about illegal activities has allowed us to make the South West a hostile environment for criminals. As demonstrated during the past week, we will always act upon the information communities provide."