Nine arrested in Shropshire operation targeting organised crime
Police carry out 14 warrants amid nine-month investigation
West Mercia Police have arrested nine individuals as part of a crackdown on serious and organised crime across Shropshire.
In collaboration with Dyfed-Powys Police, the operation saw 14 warrants executed on Wednesday morning following a nine-month investigation by the Serious Organised Crime Unit.
The raids focused on addresses in Shrewsbury, Pontesbury, Newtown and Welshpool, leading to the arrest of five men, aged between 22 and 39, on suspicion of conspiracy to produce a controlled drug, money laundering, and participating in organised crime activities.
A 42-year-old man was additionally arrested on charges including assisting unlawful immigration and human trafficking.
Two more individuals, a 58-year-old man and a 65-year-old woman, faced suspicion of conspiracy to produce a controlled drug and money laundering, while a 25-year-old man was detained over involvement in an organised crime group.
All arrested individuals have been released on police bail as investigations continue.
Dyfed-Powys Police officers discovered four cannabis farms containing 300 plants, alongside 15kg of cannabis meant for street-level distribution. Authorities also seized £20,000 in cash and 16 vehicles linked to drug supply.
Detective Inspector Steve Lloyd of the Serious Organised Crime Unit commented on the operation, highlighting a commitment to disrupting organised crime groups profiting from illegal activities that harm communities.
He said, “The warrants carried out yesterday demonstrate our commitment to disrupting organised crime groups who seek to profit from the supply and production of illegal drugs and the harm they bring to our communities."
Public assistance in reporting signs of criminal activity is encouraged through the West Mercia Police website.