Several properties across Tonyrefail and Tonypandy had an early morning call from officers this morning
Several properties across Tonyrefail and Tonypandy had an early morning call from officers this morning as they carried out warrants at 17 different properties as part of a major operation to target drug dealing operating in the Rhondda.
Our video shows the officers in action.
Officers simultaneously executed arrest and search warrants throughout Tonyrefail and Tonypandy at 6.30am this morning which resulted in 10 arrests and the seizure of cocaine and cannabis.
South Wales Police officers were assisted in the operation by colleagues from the National Crime Agency (NCA), United Kingdom Borders Agency (UKBA) and the Welsh Ambulance Service.
The operation was the result of an ongoing 5 month investigation into the distribution of drugs in the Rhondda area.
Superintendent Jim Dyson said: “ This morning’s activity was all about providing reassurance to communities in the Rhondda that we are taking action against those suspected of being involved in dealing Class A drugs. We recognise this is an issue that can be linked to crime and anti-social behaviour that affects the lives of residents and this operation was designed to send a strong message that we will deal with this type of criminality.”
Ten people have been arrested this morning and detained on suspicion of a range of offences including conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, possession of Class A drugs and Class B controlled drugs. Seven other people have been arrested previously as part of the same operation.
The operation as a whole resulted in cocaine with a street value of £500,000 being recovered along with a large quantity of cash. Two vehicles worth £50,000 were also seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Superintendent Dyson added: “This operation has been successful in terms of arrests and finds. In addition to arresting 17 people in connection with supply of drugs in the area we have also seized drugs and recovered cash. A lot of work has already gone into this, and there is more ahead, but we are pleased with progress to date and we hope a number of charges will follow.
“We know that drug dealing and drug use is often linked to other crime such as robberies or burglaries and tackling the dealers is a key part of our continuing efforts to reduce crime in the area.
“We would appeal to anyone with information on those who are involved in drug or criminal activities to come forward. We will not tolerate individuals who supply and deal on the streets our communities and those that are caught can expect to face the full force of the law.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact us on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
