EIGHT bags of cannabis have been seized after police carried out a large drug operation in Eldene.

Police officers in uniform and plain clothes carried out the operation with PCSOs on Saturday from late afternoon into the evening.

During the operation, suspected drug users and drug dealers were stopped and some were searched.

A 25-year-old man from Swindon was arrested on suspicion of possession with intention to supply class B drugs and drug driving, though he has now been released under investigation.

A 30-year-old man and a 33-year-old man were given cannabis street warnings.

A VW van was seized for having no insurance and a mountain bike was seized after it was dropped by a small group of youths running from officers.

The operation aimed to combat drug dealing and anti-social behaviour caused by gangs in the area.

Last week, a 20-year-old man was stabbed in the chest in Eldene. The victim, who was taken to Great Western Hospital, also injured his head in the attack.

Sgt Nigel Kinderman said: "This operation is just a small part of an ongoing drive to combat not only drug dealers but also the side effects of drug dealing, including knife crime and the use of children in drug-dealing gangs.

"We are determined to respond to local community concerns and to act robustly to combat drug dealing and protect children from harm.

"I would like to thank the Eldene community for their assistance in providing information to help us deal with these individuals.

“ I would urge people living locally to continue providing this intelligence to help us clear the drug dealers off their streets."

The operation comes as Wiltshire Police continue their two-week knife crime initiative and amnesty under the banner Op Sceptre.

During the period of the amnesty those handing in knives and weapons will not face prosecution for possession of a knife or weapon and can remain anonymous.

Amnesty bins are available at six specified police stations across the county, including Gablecross Police Station.

Anyone handing in a knife or weapon during the amnesty is advised to check the opening times of their station by visiting the Wiltshire Police website or calling 101.

If you have information about someone who carries a knife or is involved knife crimes please call 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Information can also be left anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.