19 arrests in week of police action on drugs

Detective Inspector Gareth Grant, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “Officers executed a series of searches and undertook a number of arrests connected to an ongoing drug trafficking investigation in Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Welshpool and surrounding areas last week.

He said the arrests were part of a protracted operation which has been running since February as a result of concerns and feedback from the community over the scourge of drug misuse.

Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has fully supported the operation and ensured additional funding was available in order.

He said: “Drugs misuse is a complex issue, and as such as well as enforcement action, we also enlisted the services of local drugs support agency Kaleidoscope, and they were present throughout the process to arrange and co-ordinate referrals and support in relation to drug abuse, addiction and rehabilitation.

“At this time, 19 men and women have been arrested and are at various stages of legal proceedings. We thank the public for their understanding and co-operation whilst this action was taking place, and hope that this positive action demonstrates our commitment to tackling drugs misuse in our communties. ”

The arrests include eight men and nine women from Newtown and Welshpool all remanded in custody.

One, Richard Hopkins, 40, from Newtown, was charged with administering a poison under Section 23 of the Offences Against The Person Act, as well as drugs offences.