FIVE people from Warminster were arrested when more than 30 officers and staff including two drugs dogs took part in an operation targeting drug use in West Wiltshire last week.

Led by Det Sgt Anthony King from the Community Tasking Team, they carried out five warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act in the Westleigh area of Warminster as well as an address in Westbury.

As a result of the raids, five people were arrested and a wide range of items were seized including suspected class A drugs and related drug paraphernalia, a firearm, a large quantity of cash across several of the addresses, mobile phones and suspected stolen bank cards.

Two vehicles were also seized including a BMW X5 and a Vauxhall Zafira as a part of the ongoing investigation.

- A man in his 30s from Warminster was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug and possession of a Section 5 Firearm.

- A man in his 30s from Warminster was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug

- A man in his 20s from Warminster was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug

- A woman in her 50s from Warminster was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug

- A woman in her 30s from Warminster was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug

All those arrested were taken to Melksham custody for questioning. All were released under investigation.

Community Coordinator PC Lee Pelling said: “Following a number of complaints in recent weeks from the local community regarding drug activity on Westleigh estate, we have worked closely with the local housing association - Selwood Housing - to take positive action and carry out multiple warrants leading to the arrest of five people, all suspected of being involved in the supply of class A drugs.

“I would urge local communities to pass any information regarding drug activity to the police or their local authorities. I hope this this sends a clear message to members of the public that no one is above the law, and if you are engaging in criminal activity, we may come knocking on your door. Not only that, but if we believe you are benefitting from this criminal activity, we will take action under the Proceeds of Crime Act.”

Verena Buchanan, Group Housing Director at Selwood Housing said: “Our neighbourhoods team has been working closely with Wiltshire Police to investigate concerning activity on this estate, leading to this raid last week. We take the safety of our customers and staff very seriously and this is a positive move to ensure Westleigh remains a safe place to live.”

To report drug activity in your neighbourhood please call 101.