Dorset Police news site

Police forces across the South West have successfully concluded Operation Scorpion 15 (OS15), a regionally coordinated crackdown on drug-related criminality, delivering significant results in tackling supply, protecting communities and strengthening public confidence.

Taking place between Monday 22 June and Sunday 28 June 2026, Operation Scorpion 15 brought together police forces from Dorset, Avon and Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, supported by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police.

This united approach demonstrates the power of cross-border collaboration in addressing the complex and evolving threat posed by illegal drugs, in this case focusing on pubs, clubs and other parts of the night-time economy.

Throughout the week, officers focused on disrupting the supply and use of drugs within pubs, clubs and licensed venues. Increased patrols and targeted activity were carried out across towns and cities throughout the region, ensuring a visible and proactive policing presence during peak times.

The operation is underpinned by a clear objective: not only to target those involved in drug supply, but also to reduce the harm drugs cause, including violence, exploitation and anti-social behaviour. By combining enforcement with safeguarding, police worked closely with partners such as street pastors, venue security staff, taxi marshals and support services to identify and assist vulnerable individuals.

As part of a balanced approach, officers also utilised diversion and support schemes for individuals found in possession of drugs for personal use, recognising that prevention and rehabilitation play an important role alongside enforcement.

Across the region, results included:

• 103 arrests
• 16 adults and children safeguarded
• Over 5kg of Class A drugs seized
• 24kg of cannabis seized
• £81,747 cash seized
• 8 weapons and 4 firearms seized
• Along with 5kg of Class A drugs, spice, ketamine, MDMA and amphetamine were also seized

In Dorset, there were:

• Nine warrants executed
• 34 arrests made
• Approx £6,200 in cash seized
• Approx 399g of Cocaine seized
• Approx 31g of Cannabis sezied
• Approx 24g of Heroin seized
• Multiple weapons seized, including knives, a crossbow, baseball bats and an imitation firearm
• Five adults and six children safeguarded

Chief Inspector Jamie Halford, of Dorset Police, said: “We fully recognise the impact that the supply of illegal drugs and drug related activity has on our communities in Dorset.

“Once again, close collaboration with our regional colleagues and developing vital intelligence as part of Operation Scorpion has yielded another set of great results for the county and beyond.

“I would like to thank the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police (BTP) for their support during this latest phase of Operation Scorpion. They have assisted us in further disrupting the activities of those involved in the suspected supply of illegal drugs.

“I would continue to urge members of the public to report any information or intelligence around the suspected drug related activity as this plays a vital role in us identifying potential drug-related activity and crime.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “These results send a clear and unequivocal message that illegal drugs and the criminality associated with them have no place in Dorset. Whether it is those supplying drugs, exploiting vulnerable people, operating county lines networks or profiting from drug-related crime, the message is simple; we will pursue offenders relentlessly and take robust action against anyone seeking to bring harm to our communities.

“The impact of illegal drugs extends far beyond those directly involved. Drug-related crime can fuel violence, exploitation and anti-social behaviour, causing significant harm to individuals, families and neighbourhoods. Through strong partnership working across Dorset and the wider south west region, Operation Scorpion demonstrates our commitment to disrupting criminal activity and safeguarding vulnerable people.

“Our commitment is unwavering: we will continue to target those who seek to profit from drugs and exploitation, protect vulnerable people from harm, and work tirelessly with our partners to ensure Dorset remains a hostile environment for criminals and a safe place for everyone else.”

British Transport Police County Lines Taskforce lead, Supt David Udomhiaye said: “Joint operations like this are proven to be a highly effective method of striking at the heart of criminal activity, pooling our resources to make a substantial dent in the operations of drug suppliers.

“Intelligence led targeting of stations with high visibility policing combined with plain clothes officers means we can direct our teams to where they are needed most.

“Our County Lines Taskforce deployed to Plymouth, Bournemouth, and Weymouth stations over a four-day period and the results speak for themselves. We made a number of arrests and safeguarding interventions.

"If you’re using the railway to sell drugs, your days of doing so are numbered."

Police are continuing to urge the public to play their part. Community intelligence remains vital in tackling drug-related activity, and residents are encouraged to report concerns. Information can be shared directly with police by calling 101, or 100 per cent anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Operation Scorpion will continue to form a key part of the region’s strategy to combat drug-related harm, with future operations building on the success of OS15 to keep South West communities safe.