An operation to tackle gang crime, protect vulnerable people and identify those involved in organised crime in East Swindon was held last week.
The operation saw officers from Swindon Neighbourhood Teams and response officers working alongside specialist officers, supported by the Special Constabulary, Intel, Financial Investigations, CID and Digital Investigation & Intelligence Units to conduct multiple warrants, welfare checks, stop searches and arrests.
In total:
– 42 addresses were identified and multiple welfare checks were carried out on vulnerable occupants throughout the week
– 35 vehicles were identified as potentially involved in organised crime and a number of stop checks were conducted
– 18 stop searches were carried out
– Six addresses were searched – two in Eldene, one in Park North, one in Walcot, one in Tadpole Gardens and one in Badbury Park
– Six people were arrested aged between 16 and 42, for various offences such as possession with intent to supply class A, breach of bail, threats with a knife over social media, and being concerned in the supply of class A drugs
– Three people aged between 17 and 26 were dealt with for possession of class B
– Three applications for three separate addresses are currently being developed for closure orders to be approved by the courts in order to protect the occupants from further exploitation.
During the week, class A drugs and cash worth more than £40,000 was seized.
Inspector Barry Reed said, “This was a really successful week of action led by neighbourhood officers, targeting those who commit serious and organised crime in our communities. As well as making a number of arrests and seizing a large quantity of drugs and cash, we have also dedicated a lot of time to identifying and protecting those most vulnerable living within our neighbourhood. Where appropriate we will be applying for closure orders at some addresses to ensure those at risk of further exploitation are protected and feel safe within their own homes.
“I hope the work we have carried out in the past week provides reassurance to local people that organised crime groups are not welcome in Swindon and we will put all resources available into tackling and disrupting serious and organised crime.
“We know people in our communities will have concerns and worries about drug dealing and we hope this shows that we are committed to tackling this activity – not only do drugs cause misery for so many people, but the wider criminality linked to drug dealing, which often includes violence and intimidation, can have a huge impact on our communities.”
To report suspected drug activity, call 101 or 999 in an emergency.
You can find more information about how you can report suspicious activity where you live by clicking here.
