Guns seized in drugs crackdown

112 people arrested in police operation

Police have seized guns as well as large quantities of drugs in crackdown on drugs and child exploitation.

Five forces from across the South West have collaborated for Operation Scorpion, which sees them working together to tackle county-lines drug networks.

Across the operation, 112 people were arrested, and more than £67,000 in cash was seized.

Officers also recovered a large amount of cannabis, including 868 plants, and recovered three guns and five imitation firearms.

Assistant Chief Constable Dave Thorne said the results highlight Devon & Cornwall Police’s commitment to reducing drug-related harm: “Operations like this send a clear message that we will continue to target those who choose to profit from causing harm in our communities.

“The outcomes reflect the support of the public who play an important role in helping us identify and disrupt criminal activity, and the hard work and dedication of our staff.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “Our communities are fed up with witnessing drug dealing and drug abuse in their communities.

"The amount of cash, kilograms of drugs and numbers of weapons seized by police during this Operation Scorpion tell only part of the story of the continuing efforts to remove the scourge of drugs from our communities.

"The harm from drugs is not limited to the immediate physical and mental harm it brings to addicts and anti-social behaviour associated with drug use, there is also the violence, coercion and exploitation of children and adults who are caught up in the criminal distribution of these illegal substances

“The public play a huge part in protecting our young people and making sure the south west is no place for drugs, so if you suspect or know of drug activity, please let the police know or report it anonymously through Crimestoppers. Every report is valuable.”