Dorset drug arrests - Operation Dismantle

Officers attended a series of addresses in Weymouth and Portland on 8 February, as part of an intelligence-led operation to remove suspected drug dealers.

As part of Operation Dismantle, warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 were executed at nine different addresses - eight private and one commercial - in Preston, Westham, Weymouth town centre and Portland, and each address was thoroughly searched by specially trained officers.

Five men, aged between 36 and 48, all from the Weymouth area, were arrested in relation to drugs offences and a 62-year-old man from Weymouth was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A significant quantity of suspected stolen goods, cash and drugs were also found – the substances are currently being forensically examined.

Section Commander for Weymouth and Portland, Inspector Pete Meteau said, “…This operation was as a result of intelligence gathered over many months and we would urge anyone with any information to come forward and talk to us in confidence.

“It is essential that communities tell us about what is going on in their area so that we can tackle those issues that most affect local people.”

Dorset Police will continue to take part in community-based partnership work, including support for any victims of drug suppliers and improving the local communities in affected neighbourhoods.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 222 222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.