A FIVE-day police investigation resulted in the seizure of around £10,000 of counterfeit tobacco and illegal vape products in North Somerset.

The multi-agency operation which involved mounted police, roads officers, and a search dog also found a quantity of class A and C drugs.

The aim of the sting - which was held from August 19-23 - was to respond to the biggest concerns raised in Weston-super-Mare town centre, Bournville, Worle, Nailsea and Portishead. 

The operation was supported by the Home Office Immigration Service, the Community Safety and Community Response teams at North Somerset Council, the Youth Justice and Prevention Service and Avon Fire and Rescue Service, who all came together to secure the result. 

They were also assisted in the operation by Rio, a specially trained tobacco search dog who is privately owned. 

Other successes during the week included a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant carried out at an address in Grasmere Drive, Weston-super-Mare, on Tuesday, August 20. Responding to community intelligence, proactive action led to the arrest of a man in his thirties on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug. He has since been bailed so further enquiries can be carried out. 

A number of items were seized during the search of both the property and a vehicle linked to the suspect, including cash, a quantity of suspected class A and class C drugs, a mobile phone and a knife.  

Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) were highly visible in the Bournville area during and after the warrant to provide residents with information and reassurance. 

Summing up the week of action, Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Jonathan Murray urged the public to continue to report crime and intimidating behaviour, including drug supply and motorcycle or e-scooter offences, to the police via a dedicated webpage.  

He said: “Ultimately, it’s the community’s voice that matters in shaping what we do, where we are, and making sure we’re addressing the things that concern them the most. Rest assured, we are listening and we are taking action. 

“Our week of targeted action has showcased the breadth of work that our neighbourhood officers routinely carry out, and the crucial role our partners, including North Somerset Council, play in helping keep North Somerset communities safe. 

“However, the positive outcomes we’ve shared aren’t limited to just one week. Our officers work hard every day to disrupt crime in action, deter future criminal behaviour and protect the public from harm.”