Dorset Police hail success of anti-drug Operation Scorpion
It's been running across the South West
Dorset Police has reported successful outcomes from a coordinated crackdown on drug-related crime, highlighting significant strides in disrupting illegal drug supply and safeguarding communities.
Operation Scorpion 15 (OS15), which ran from 22nd to 28th June 2026, brought together police forces from across the South West, supported by the Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police.
Focused on addressing the challenges posed by illegal drugs within pubs, clubs, and other parts of the night-time economy, police officers across the region intensified patrols and conducted targeted activities in towns and cities.
Chief Inspector Jamie Halford of Dorset Police praised the operation's effectiveness, stating: "We fully recognise the impact that the supply of illegal drugs and drug-related activity has on our communities in Dorset.
"Once again, close collaboration with our regional colleagues and developing vital intelligence as part of Operation Scorpion has yielded another set of great results for the county and beyond.
"I would like to thank the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police (BTP) for their support during this latest phase of Operation Scorpion. They have assisted us in further disrupting the activities of those involved in the suspected supply of illegal drugs.
"I would continue to urge members of the public to report any information or intelligence around suspected drug-related activity as this plays a vital role in us identifying potential drug-related activity and crime.”
In Dorset, the initiative resulted in:
- Nine warrants executed
- 34 arrests made
- Approximately £6,200 in cash seized
- Approximately 399g of cocaine seized
- Approximately 31g of cannabis seized
- Approximately 24g of heroin seized
- Multiple weapons seized, including knives, a crossbow, and an imitation firearm
- Five adults and six children safeguarded
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick shared his support for the operation, saying: "These results send a clear and unequivocal message that illegal drugs and the criminality associated with them have no place in Dorset.
"Whether it is those supplying drugs, exploiting vulnerable people, operating county lines networks or profiting from drug-related crime, the message is simple; we will pursue offenders relentlessly and take robust action against anyone seeking to bring harm to our communities.
"The impact of illegal drugs extends far beyond those directly involved. Drug-related crime can fuel violence, exploitation and anti-social behaviour, causing significant harm to individuals, families and neighbourhoods.
"Through strong partnership working across Dorset and the wider south west region, Operation Scorpion demonstrates our commitment to disrupting criminal activity and safeguarding vulnerable people.
"Our commitment is unwavering: we will continue to target those who seek to profit from drugs and exploitation, protect vulnerable people from harm, and work tirelessly with our partners to ensure Dorset remains a hostile environment for criminals and a safe place for everyone else."
British Transport Police County Lines Taskforce lead, Supt David Udomhiaye, commented on the joint operation saying: "Joint operations like this are proven to be a highly effective method of striking at the heart of criminal activity, pooling our resources to make a substantial dent in the operations of drug suppliers.
"Intelligence-led targeting of stations with high-visibility policing combined with plain clothes officers means we can direct our teams to where they are needed most.
"If you’re using the railway to sell drugs, your days of doing so are numbered."
Police urge community involvement in combatting drug-related crime, encouraging residents to report concerns via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Operation Scorpion remains a central element in the strategic efforts to combat drug-related harm, with future actions planned to build on the success of OS15 and ensure community safety across the South West.