Eight Bailed After Drug Raids

Police have revealed they arrested a total of eight people in a series of drug raids across Southampton on Friday November 23rd.

Officers say more people have come forward to tell them about illegal drug activity where they live.

Teams carried out eight warrants in total at houses in the Bitterne, Northam, Woolston, Weston, Netley and city centre areas.

Subsequently, a further three homes were also searched.

A 44-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of possessing cocaine with intent to supply and money laundering. She was bailed until January 16.

A 49-year-old man and 48-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs. They were bailed until January 16..

A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing cocaine with intent to supply and money laundering. He was bailed until January 23.

Two men, 47 and 33, were arrested on suspicion of possessing cocaine with intent to supply and bailed until January 23.

A 29-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possessing cocaine with intent to supply and money laundering. They were bailed until January 23 and 24 respectively.

Officers seized a quantity of suspected class A drugs and around £9,000 in cash. They also recovered and seized a taser gun.

 
Detective Superintendent Kath Barnes said:

"Operation Fortress has been running since March and it's going really well.

"In that time we've made close to 160 arrests and seized around £60,000 worth of drugs and cash, plus today's haul."

"As an organisation, I really feel we're working as one team on the campaign and these warrants, which are very much geared up towards disrupting the supply of drugs in and around Southampton, are an example of that.

"As well as all the police enforcement work, Operation Fortress is also about ensuring we've got the right structure in place to reduce the demand for drugs and help rebuild our communities free from the fear of drugs.

"That's why we work closely with partner agencies such as the city council, drug rehabilitation groups and voluntary services to make sure what we're doing will make a difference in the long run."

"For example, we've referred 13 people identified through our investigations to drug treatment and support services and, through our Safer Neighbourhoods teams, we're working with local groups to help clean up communities affected by drug-dealing and the violence and anti-social behaviour that comes with it."

If you're concerned about drug dealing or drug-related violence where you live, call the police on 101 or email operation.fortress@hampshire.pnn.police.uk

If you're worried about your own drug use, or drug use by someone in your family, The Bridge open access drug centre can be contacted on 02380 881400. The Parent Support Link on 02380 39 9764 offers support and advice to people affected by someone else's drug use.