A complex four-month long investigation led to a series of drug raids at properties across Bath early yesterday morning, Wednesday 14th December, with a number of people arrested.
Warrants were executed at 11 addresses and 19 people were subsequently arrested for drug supply offences.
One man was also arrested for a public order offence.
Specialist officers, along with drugs dogs, searched the properties and a quantity of Class A drugs and a knife were seized.
The raids, which began shortly after 5am, involved more than 60 officers and staff.
Speaking yesterday, Chief Inspector Kevin Thatcher said: “Today’s activity is the culmination of a sustained and detailed investigation.
“It is the latest in a number of comprehensive inquiries across the Avon and Somerset area targeting street dealers and it highlights just how strongly we feel about dangerous drugs being sold on our streets.
“Drugs have a hugely negative impact on communities, with anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and other crimes all generated by people trying to fund their drug use and by the dealers who exploit them.
“Residents should not have to put up with criminals selling drugs openly in their communities and we are committed to tackling those involved in such offending head-on.”
“As a constabulary we are investing heavily in combating drug crime and we will do everything we can to keep people safe but we can’t do this alone.
“We need the support of the local community – they are our eyes and ears so please tell us about anything in your street or neighbourhood which makes you feel uneasy and we will take action.”
Officers from the neighbourhood team are patrolling the local area explaining the police action to residents and visitors. They were supported by the mounted section who were also be offering reassurance.
Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “Drugs have a detrimental impact not only on those who abuse them but also the wider community.
“I know that where drugs are present, communities can be affected by drug-related crime and anti-social behaviour and that for those people it affects how they feel about their neighbourhood.
“Residents have a right to live in communities free from drugs, drug litter and drug-related crime and it’s important that local people see the police taking action against those involved with drugs.
“In order to protect the most vulnerable from harm and ensure our communities are safe and feel safe we must work together to tackle drugs, prevent misuse and ensure treatment is available for those who seek help.”
If you have information about any suspected criminal or suspicious activity in your area, call Avon and Somerset Police on 101 or report it online at www.avonandsomerset.police.uk.
If you don’t want to speak to the police, then call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, it is completely anonymous and you could earn yourself a cash reward.