Ten arrested in Gloucestershire as part of police drugs crackdown
Six people have since been charged and remanded in custody.
Last updated 4th Jul 2025
Ten arrests have been made in Gloucestershire as part of a police crackdown on drug supply networks.
Six men, three women and a teenage boy were arrested, with six charged and remanded in custody. The other four were released on bail while further enquiries take place.
The crackdown is focussing on those who exploit children or enable drug dealers to operate. Police say eight people were safeguarded and officers worked with partner agencies to ensure long-term support.
In addition to the arrests, officers visited people who were concerned about potential cuckooing - where a drug dealer takes over a vulnerable person's address in order to use it as a base. Officers also spoke to taxi drivers and local hotels to raise awareness of the signs to spot criminals exploiting children and drug dealing activity.
The operation, which ran from the 23rd of June, also coincided with the police's national County Lines Intensification Week. A series of warrants took place during the week resulting in £1,475 in cash and drugs with a street value of around £12,000 being seized. Three knives, three vehicles and five mobile phones were also seized as part of the operation.
Assistant Chief Constable Richard Ocone said: "We're determined to disrupt those involved with the supply of drugs in Gloucestershire, and particularly those who exploit children as part of this.
"It's key that we target those responsible for the serious and organised crime, but it's also important that there is a joint effort to prevent people from coming to harm in the first place.
"Over this latest phase, education and awareness raising has been taking place to highlight the signs to spot to protect young people who criminals are exploiting right here in Gloucestershire.
"Our collective aim is to make the South West a hostile environment for organised crime groups, and we continue to urge anyone with information relating to child exploitation or suspected drug dealing activity to report it to us."
Police and Crime Commissioner Chris Nelson said: "We are determined to send out a message that Gloucestershire is no place for drugs. These results show our commitment to tough enforcement when it comes to dealing with illegal drugs throughout our county and the South West."
"Robustly tackling those intent on causing our communities harm is vital. This operation has once again showed its value, closing down county lines and protecting vulnerable people, including children."
"Combining the resources of all of the region's forces, demonstrates a united approach to policing in an attempt to reduce the serious harm and violence caused by drugs. Recognising the signs and behaviour to look out for, we can all play our part in smashing these gangs and send a clear message that this region will not tolerate this harmful criminal activity."