Message sent by |
Alexander Barrett (Police, Communications Officer, Thames Valley) |
Thames Valley Police this morning (24/1) executed warrants across Oxford, Abingdon and London to mark a campaign to tackle organised crime groups.
As part of this large scale operation 22 people were arrested.
It relates to organised crime groups, who have been operating across county lines to bring in drugs to deal in Oxford, but also to move to other locations outside of the Thames Valley.
This was as a result of a yearlong investigation by Thames Valley Police’s Serious Organised Crime Unit and marks the start of STRONGHOLD.
Deputy LPA Commander for Oxford City LPA, Chief Inspector Marc Tarbit, said: “You may have seen a police presence at various locations throughout the Oxford City LPA this morning.
“This is part of an operation to tackle organised crime groups working in our City to supply drugs.
“Following on from the operation officers in Oxford City Local Policing Area will be carrying out high visibility patrols to offer reassurance but also to continue to disrupt criminal activity relating to the supply of drugs in our City.
“In addition to this we are working closely with partners to offer support to drug users to stop demand for drugs in the LPA, and also working closely to provide safeguarding for adults and children.
“We would advise any members of the public that have any concerns as a result of these warrants to please speak to one of the Neighbourhood Policing team or call 101.
“We would also ask any members of the public who may have information that may assist us in tackling drugs supply and organised crime in Oxford to please call 101”.
This operation marks the launch of STRONGHOLD which will fight organised crime in partnership which you will hear more about in the coming weeks and months.
#TVPstronghold