Six Arrested And Pub Closed In Local Drug Raids

Six people have been arrested as Avon and Somerset Police carried out a series of Misuse of Drugs warrants across Midsomer Norton and Radstock.

The arrests were made as officers forced entry to homes and searched them for any evidence of Class A and B drugs, including cocaine and cannabis. Around ten bags of cocaine powder has been seized.

One pub, the Stones Cross in North Road, Midsomer Norton was also searched and was later closed down under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003. Officers applied for the so-called ‘crack house closure’ on the grounds that the pub was concerned with drugs use and the handling of stolen goods.

Yesterday’s police action follows a lengthy intelligence-led investigation into drugs supply and possession in the Midsomer Norton and Radstock area.

Neighbourhood Inspector Shirley Eden said: “This is a very important operation that will have an enormously significant effect on the supply, production and use of drugs in our community.

“People may think that drugs use, and the crime and anti-social behaviour associated with drugs, is an urban problem that does not affect more rural areas like Midsomer Norton and Radstock.

“The reality is that drugs are a serious problem here and we are determined to do whatever we can to disrupt the system and bring to justice all those who are pedalling drugs and profiting from their crime.”

Insp Eden paid tribute to the many members of the community who have supported the police and offered vital information about people and properties believed linked to drugs.

She said: “The public are our eyes and ears and without them our job would be much more difficult.”

Anyone who is concerned about drugs use and anti-social behaviour associated with it is urged to contact police on 101.