Drug raids in Swindon as part of police week of action on county lines
Eight people were arrested across Wiltshire.
Eight people have been arrested following a police week of action to tackle county lines drug dealing in Wiltshire.
Police teams in the county carried out seven warrants on properties including in Swindon.
More than a £1,000 in cash was recovered, £500 worth of drugs seized, and three County Lines were disrupted.
Police forces across the country shut down 172 County Lines during the national operation.
Det Insp Sarah Champion, who led the operation, said: “Working with colleagues from other areas of policing as well as partners is a good example of successful collaboration where we are all committed to tackling County Lines and those criminals involved, as well as protecting those at risk of being exploited by unscrupulous these gangs.
“We know that the public have real concerns about the impact of County Lines in our towns, in our communities; however, I hope people are reassured by our ongoing efforts and the hard work by officers and staff across the Force in tackling this type of organised criminality.
“Not only are these criminals selling drugs to vulnerable drug users, creating a cycle of misery and knock-on criminality, but this directly impacts our communities.
“Our work will always continue against the distribution of drugs in our county. However, we can’t be everywhere and we need the public’s help to report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood. I would urge anyone who suspects drug gangs operating in their area to contact us.”
PCC Phil Wilkinson said: “Communities are destroyed by drug-related crime and anti-social behaviour, not to mention the impact this has on vulnerable people who end up being used by criminal gangs – the knock-on effects of drug dealers in communities can make life unbearable.
“Listening to residents’ concerns was key in the strategic focus given in my police and crime plan. Wiltshire Police will continue to disrupt drug supplies, robustly deal with criminals and rid our streets of drugs. My thanks to those officers who have worked on this intensification operation tirelessly to drive down drug-related crime and anti-social behaviour in their areas.
“As ever, the key to the success of this work, and the targeting of ongoing police operations, is the intelligence gathered and given to us by our communities. Wiltshire Police need to know where this criminality is happening and they will take action."