South West Police Launch Blitz on Night-Time Drug Trade
Operation Scorpion, a joint effort by five South West police forces, British Transport Police, SWROCU, and CrimeStoppers, is hitting drug dealers hard. The aim? To make the South West no-go zone for drugs.
Phase Three Targets Night-Time Economy
The latest phase focused on cracking down on drug supply and use in nightlife hotspots like Plymouth, Bournemouth, swindon/" title="Swindon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Swindon, Cheltenham, and Bath. Undercover officers patrolled bars, conducting drug tests in licensed venues to sniff out offenders.
Staggering Results Across Three Weekends
- 649 drug disruptions
- 70 arrests, 8 charges filed
- 22 vulnerable people safeguarded
- £51,853 cash seized
- Around 3.5kg of Class B and 2.2kg of Class A drugs confiscated
Earlier phases in March and July saw over 800 police actions, multiple kilos of drugs seized, £300,000+ cash recovered, and weapons taken off the streets.
Police Chief Sends a Stark Warning
“Drugs dogs helped searches, Roads Policing stopped drug runners and drugged drivers, and targeted warrants ripped drugs off our streets,” said Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell of Devon & Cornwall Police.
“Operation Scorpion sends a clear message: the South West is no place for drugs. We’ll keep hunting dealers, safeguarding the vulnerable, and educating the public on drug risks.”
He added: “Public tips via CrimeStoppers were crucial. If you know someone dealing or using drugs, report it and help us make the region hostile for criminals.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Takes a Stand
Alison Hernandez, PCC for Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, said: “Party drugs like ecstasy and cocaine aren’t harmless fun. Young lives are lost and communities shattered. Buying drugs fuels child exploitation and violence.”
“We’re showing strength: dealers and users beware, help is out there but illegal activity won’t be tolerated.”
How to Report Drug Crime
- Call 101 or contact your local police online for non-emergencies.
- In emergencies, dial 999 immediately.
- To report anonymously, contact CrimeStoppers 24/7 on 0800 555 111 or via their secure online form.
CrimeStoppers guarantees 100% anonymity and never asks for your name. If your tip leads to an arrest and charge, you could earn up to £1,000.
