Drug seizures after undercover police operation in Torquay

A number of people were arrested and hundreds of pounds worth of drugs were seized during an undercover police operation in Torquay. Devon and Cornwall Police officers in civilian clothes and unmarked cars recently patrolled the town to catch offenders in the area.

Police said five people were arrested for offences including suspected drug dealing and violence. Drugs, including spice and heroin, were also seized by officers as part of the operation.

Meanwhile, three people were dispersed from the area for causing a nuisance to the community. They were ordered not to return to Torquay for 24 hours.

Officers were also given information from concerned members of the public about suspected drug dealing and supply in the town. The reports are now being investigated and the force are continuing to appeal for information.

Inspector Ben Shardlow, who heads up the neighbourhood policing team in Torquay town centre said: “These immediate results are a step in the right direction. The more unsettling and unstable we are able to make it for criminals to operate in Torquay, the better.

“We will continue to run these plain clothes operations in an unpredictable manner. We want it to be a hostile place for those who look to cause harm in our communities and continue to make it a safer place for residents and visitors.”

Reporting crime

Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Reports from members of the public provide police with invaluable information about where and when crimes are taking place. Please continue to report any intelligence, no matter how small, on the Devon & Cornwall Police website or by calling 101. Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via their website. "

They added: "Police teams in Torquay regularly post updates about the work they are doing to protect local communities, connect with the public and reduce crime within the area on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Follow them on social media @TorquayPolice. Alternatively, you can sign up to Devon & Cornwall Alert to stay up to date with the latest information directly from police teams in your area."