Police have arrested five people in connection with drugs offences after executing warrants at two neighbouring properties in Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent.
Officers from Stoke-on-Trent North Local Policing Team (LPT) executed two warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act last night, Tuesday.
They targeted the addresses in High Lane after gathering information through intelligence inquiries and from members of the public.
At the first address officers arrested two men, aged 35 and 36, and a 33-year-old woman.
They seized suspected Class B drugs (cannabis and amphetamines), a large quantity of cash and assets. Those arrested remain in police custody.
Officers went on to arrest a 38-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman at the address next door.
They also seized several boxes of suspected cannabis vegetation and various assets. Those arrested also remain in custody.
In total from both addresses officers seized more than £10,000 worth of suspected Class B drugs and in excess of £50,000 worth of assets.
Last night’s arrests are part of Operation Nemesis – the force’s ongoing drive to tackle drug dealers and bring them to justice.
The arrests came just hours before the third phase of a major operation targeting suspected drug dealers in Burton.
So far this morning eight people have been arrested in the Burton area and taken to custody for interview.
Inspector Rob Taylor, from Stoke-on-Trent North LPT, said: “Our commitment to tackling drug dealers, and those who benefit from such crime, is ongoing.
“Last night’s arrests send out a clear message to the communities we serve – Staffordshire Police will not tolerate drug misuse and we will take dealers, and their associates, off the streets.
“We cannot continue this work without the help and support of local people, and the information they provide about crime in their community is imperative.
"I would ask that the public continue to let us know about such issues so we can take the appropriate action.
“Together with our partners we will continue to take a tough stance on criminals involved in drugs and related anti-social behaviour.”
Following last night’s arrests a detailed investigation is now underway by officers who are now carrying out further lines of inquiry.
High-vis patrols will also be stepped up in the High Lane area to reassure local residents.
Anyone with information about drug dealing can call police on 101 or through the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 111 555, or go on line at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
The Crimestoppers Trust in the only registered and independent charity helping to solve crimes it is not part of the police service.
