Police seize £44k of spice in drugs crackdown

Police confiscated a package of the drug spice with a street value of £44,000 during a raid as part of a sweeping crackdown on drug crime.

The seizure in Exeter, Devon, was part of Operation Scorpion, which is aimed at tackling the drug supply chain and protecting the communities it damages.

Devon and Cornwall Police joined up with other south west forces to tackle the "threat" of illegal drugs in pubs, clubs and other parts of the night time industry, leading to 103 arrests and the seizure of weapons, drugs and nearly £82,000 cash.

Drugs liaison officer Det Con Nick Burnett said it was "very satisfying" that 2kg (4.4lb) of spice had been "taken out of circulation", which he said could cause organ failure and death.

Burnett added: "Spice is a particularly dangerous synthetic cannabinoid.

"Depending on its chemical structure, the effects can last between one and six hours and can leave the user wanting more and taking larger doses."

In the wider operation, in which police swooped on both properties and transport hubs, the force executed seven warrants, made 19 checks on licensed premises and seized four firearms, various drugs and £81,747 cash, while there were 103 arrests.

The force said 16 adults and children were safeguarded, while seizures included:

• Over 5kg (11lb) of Class A drugs
• 24kg (53lb) of cannabis
• Eight weapons and four firearms

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, operational lead, said Operation Scorpion was designed to make the South West a "hostile environment" for drug dealers.

The operation took place between 22 and 28 June and involved the Avon and Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire forces, supported by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police.

The operation featured increased patrols and targeted raids on those involved in drug supply.

The force said enforcement and safeguarding were a key element, thanks to collaboration with street pastors, venue security staff, taxi marshals and support services "to identify and assist vulnerable individuals".

It said there was also a focus on "prevention and rehabilitation" for those found with drugs for personal use.

Transport hubs were also targeted, including railway stations in Plymouth, Bournemouth and Weymouth.

Supt David Udomhiaye said: "If you're using the railway to sell drugs, your days of doing so are numbered."

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