Raids 'are a warning to drug dealers'

POLICE have warned drug dealers to watch their backs after a series of seizures across south Somerset.

Officers have searched at least seven properties and made three arrests in the last three weeks as they attempt to curb illegal drug use.

And they say they are ready to respond to information passed to them by residents who suspect illegal use or dealing.

Around 250 plants were seized from a property in Henstridge, along with mobile phones and cash after police suspected a cannabis growing operation was under way.

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The discovery was made last month after a member of the public alerted police to a broken window on an unoccupied property.

Police said enquiries were continuing this week and no arrests had been made.

PC Andrew Brown said: "We would always encourage local residents to be vigilant and to keep a look-out for any suspicious behaviour or activity."

On Saturday, January 26, police seized cannabis and £800 at the Yeovil Foyer on Peter Street – a supported housing scheme for 16 to 24-year-olds.

Staff had told police they suspected drugs were on the premises. A 19-year-old man was arrested at the scene and remains on police bail.

Sonia Furzland, assistant director of supported housing at Knightstone, which runs the Foyer, said: "Our mission is to build vibrant, stable and safe communities. We're committed to helping young people at the Foyer achieve their aspirations to enter into work, education and training. We also work with them to explore the impact that drug use can have on their health.

"Our young people know that we work closely with the police and will pass any information or concerns about possible use directly to the police."

Police say they seized a small quantity of cannabis from a property on Chowins Close, Crewkerne after a search on Thursday, and also took a jar of liquid from a house on Mitchelmore Road, Yeovil, for testing – which could take several weeks.

No arrests were made at either address.

Further search warrants have been executed at properties in Ilminster and elsewhere in Yeovil in recent weeks, with two people arrested and bailed by police.

Yeovil Neighbourhood Police Team Sergeant Jamie Rees appealed for more information from residents.

He said: "Without information from the public, our job is that much more difficult. The more information we get the quicker we can react. We will continue to analyse the information we receive and act accordingly.

"Anybody that is dealing drugs in the community needs to watch over their shoulder because we will be targeting them."