Thousands of pounds-worth of drugs were seized and two men arrested on suspicion of dealing after raids by Wiltshire Police’s organised crime squad.

Detectives executed six warrants at houses across the town this morning, with armed officers helping smash through doors. Houses were targeted in Curtis Street, Stockton Road, Holbein Close, Lumley Close, Penhill Drive and Somerville Road.

Det Insp Rab Macleod of the Specialist Crime Department said the raids were part of efforts to tackle serious and organised crime in Swindon.

Police raid a house this morning

“During these warrants, we’ve seized thousands of pounds worth of illegal drugs which was no doubt destined for local drug users and set to cause harm within our communities. We’ve also seized designer clothing and footwear likely to be obtained through proceeds of crime,” he said.

“Unfortunately, this type of criminal activity has not slowed down during the coronavirus pandemic and those involved will continue to go about their activity no matter what. Today’s warrants were all executed on housing estates in Swindon – with more people working from home than ever before, it’s crucial that members of the public continue to help us tackle this criminality by reporting concerns about suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood.”

A 25-year-old man was arrested at a house in Curtis Street on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs. Another man, 23, was arrested in the Penhill Drive raid on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

Two other people were fined or cautioned for cannabis possession. Enquiries are ongoing.