Nearly 100 arrests made in South West and Dorset crackdown

Operation Scorpion saw police forces across the South West—including Dorset Police—join forces in a coordinated week of action targeting organised crime and child criminal exploitation.

The operation led to the seizure of drugs, weapons, and cash, and the safeguarding of vulnerable people.

Operation Scorpion saw police forces across the South West—including Dorset Police—join forces in a coordinated week of action targeting organised crime and child criminal exploitation. (Image: Dorset Police)

Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Halford, of Dorset Police, said: “During a week of action as part of Operation Scorpion, we have shut down county lines, seized weapons, cash and illegal drugs, disrupted criminality and safeguarded those being exploited.

“The results we achieved highlight that working together across the region offers the best opportunity to tackle suspected criminal networks who are operating across our force areas and exploiting vulnerable people.

“We want to be clear that we will continue to target those involved in the suspected supply of illegal drugs in Dorset, as we fully recognise the impact they are having on our communities.”

In total, 92 people were arrested and 59 were safeguarded across the region.

Police seized more than £446,000 worth of drugs, £54,915 in cash, and 29 weapons, including a knuckleduster, batons, and imitation firearms.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “Once again the latest round of Operation Scorpion has demonstrated the success of close collaboration, robust enforcement and effective safeguarding in tackling the issue of illegal drugs across the region.

“The action taken with partners across the South West reinforces the message that Dorset is no place for illegal drugs and we will not tolerate these offences in our area.”

In Dorset alone, 47 arrests were made.

Officers seized at least £30,000 worth of cocaine, 2.47g of heroin, 99g of cannabis, and £13,402.85 in cash.

Police seized more than £446,000 worth of drugs, £54,915 in cash, and 29 weapons, including a knuckleduster, batons, and imitation firearms. (Image: Dorset Police)

At least 15 cuckooed addresses—properties taken over by criminals were visited.

Officers also worked with schools, taxi drivers, and hotel staff to raise awareness about child exploitation and how to spot warning signs.

Anyone who suspects illegal drug activity is encouraged to report it to the police by calling 101 or visiting Dorset Police’s website.

In an emergency, always call 999.