Police seized over £550,000 in cash, drugs and a Samurai sword in raids across Carlisle.
Operation Huelva was conducted yesterday, Friday May 2, and was funded by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen as part of the Drugs Fund.
Police raided seven properties in the city, which led to nine people being arrested for offences including the supply of controlled drugs and possession of criminal property.
Cocaine, ketamine and cannabis were recovered across these warrants as well as over £556,000 in cash.
Officers also seized over 1,000 cannabis vapes, hundreds of edibles and a Samurai sword.
Police also spoke to landlords of licensed premises and their customers, plus giving out advice on spiking and conducting work to prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).
During the day, officers visited local schools to speak to over 160 pupils about drugs and educate them about exploitation.
The operation included officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, Operational Support, Dog Section, the Community Serious Organised Crime Unit and Force Intelligence Units.
Detective Superintendent Ian Hussey said: “Operation Huelva, is the fourth policing operation we have carried out this year to target criminals involved in illicit drugs.
“This operation targeted activities within Carlisle and aimed to disrupt, prevent and target those who supply drugs in our communities.
“The work falls under the umbrella of Cumbria Constabulary’s overarching response to serious and organised crime – Operation Alliance.
“As part of this operation officers carried out several warrants to target criminals. We also had officers out in the city centre visiting pubs and clubs and providing a visible presence to disrupt criminal behaviour.
“We urge anyone with information on drug activities within our community to report information to us.”
Mr Allen said: “Time and time again, residents raise with me their concerns around drugs within our communities which is why it is, quite rightly, one of my key priorities to disrupt and end drugs supply in Cumbria.
“The police and I have a zero-tolerance policy regarding drugs – the funding provided by my Office to the Police allows us to target and tackle the individuals that deal drugs in Cumbria.
“Drugs cause devastation to families and communities, cause untold damage and blight whole areas so I am really pleased to see the positive results of Operation Huelva.
“The message to criminals is clear: if you deal drugs or are involved in the supply of drugs in Cumbria, you will be caught and punished.
“Residents know their area better than anyone – If you want drugs out of your local area so that you and your families can live safely – if you spot something suspicious or believe there is drug-related crime in your community, please report it to the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Together we can protect Cumbria.”
