Police operation across Hampshire and Isle of Wight sees £1.7million worth of drugs seized
Police made 8 arrests and seized more than 4300 cannabis plants
Police across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have seized large amounts of cannabis, thought to have an estimated street value of £1.7 million, during a month-long crackdown on drug crime.
It was part of a nation-wide campaign called ‘Operation Mille’, aimed at unearthing and disrupting Organised Crime Groups (OCGs) and their illegal revenue streams.
Across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, 16 warrants were carried out, 8 arrests were made, and 4320 plants were seized.
Police forces across England and Wales coordinated a thousand search warrants against OCGs, arrested hundreds of people, seized firearms and uncovered huge amounts of cash and cannabis plants worth approximately £115-£130 million.
Detective Chief Superintendent Tim Rowlandson, Head of Intelligence, Tasking and Development for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, said: “Over the last month we have been continuing our relentless pursuit of criminals by targeting sophisticated and organised crime groups running cannabis factories within Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. In one factory alone this week, we uncovered over £400,000 worth of drugs. That’s money, which would otherwise have been used to fund further crime across the two counties.
“The operation has involved officers across all parts of the force. Local officers have been key to identifying potential sites – and engaging with communities afterwards to provide reassurance and gather evidence; Investigation teams have been taking the evidence gathered to pursue prosecutions and uncover more offenders; and yet others have supported with specialist skills. This was a whole force effort, which will massively disrupt the ability of these criminals to operate - and will play a significant role in keeping Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safe.”