Alison Hernandez praises police's work during Op Scorpion
South West police forces have been collaborating to disrupt drug supply chains
Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez has endorsed the efforts of police officers in tackling drug crime in the South West through Operation Scorpion.
During the intensive week from June 22nd to 28th, Operation Scorpion aimed to disrupt drug supply chains and protect affected communities.
A raid was conducted in Devonport and coordinated police presence was seen at Plymouth Railway Station.
Two men, both aged 21, were apprehended during the operation.
One of the men was found with a knife and was remanded following a stop search by British Transport Police.
He had recently been released from prison.
The other man was found with ketamine and dealt with through a Community Resolution Order.
The operation is a cross-border collaborative effort involving police forces from Devon and Cornwall, Avon and Somerset, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, supported by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police.
The week-long focus led to 103 arrests, 16 adults and children being safeguarded, and seizures including over 5kg of Class A drugs, 24kg of cannabis, £81,747 in cash, eight weapons, and four firearms.
Commissioner Hernandez noted the operation’s milestone achievements, indicating that cumulative figures from all 15 iterations of Operation Scorpion will be released later this week.
She emphasised the importance of addressing the root causes of drug use and stated that tackling drug issues is one of her four priority areas.
Her office allocates nearly £500,000 to programmes addressing drug and alcohol issues, supporting recovery and preventing exploitation.
The public is encouraged to report drug crimes to the police or through Crimestoppers.
Mrs Hernandez also urged anyone struggling with drug abuse to seek support.