Published: Sunday, 20th July, 2008 12:00pm

Massive drugs raid on Slough homes

by Mike Greenshields

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A HUGE police raid dealt a major blow to drug dealers this week.

More than 300 officers invaded suspected drug networks across Slough, arresting 47 people in one of the biggest intelligence-lead operations ever carried out by Thames Valley Police.

Operation Falcon saw officers execute 58 warrants (49 in Slough) between Tuesday and Thursday, seizing Class A drugs and a large quantity of cash.

A total of 21 people have been charged with offences relating to drug possession, supply or conspiracy to supply. A further 15 are being held in police custody, while nine have been bailed and two cautioned.

Wednesday was the crucial part of the operation which saw 31 warrants (23 in Slough) simultaneously carried out shortly after 6.30am, resulting in 21 arrests.

Supt Pete Davies, local police commander for Slough, said: "This operation has been meticulously planned by a number of our specialist officers working behind the scenes for many months.

"At times residents may think that we do not take their concerns into account, but this operation has shown that we always do and sometimes playing the waiting game proves to be the best method. Drug dealers need to know that they will be confronted by police and challenged at every opportunity.

"Their illegal activities not only create crime and misery but also cause drug addiction amongst some of our young and most vulnerable people.

"This operation proves that we are working hard to protect the public from drug related crime and that we are putting criminals and organised crime syndicates firmly on the back foot."

Operation Falcon has been running in Slough and other parts of Berkshire East since March 2006 and has secured a number of successful convictions against dealers over the years.

Supt Davies added: "While Falcon seeks to disrupt the supply network by targeting dealers, it is important that addicts know where to go for help.

"We've been working closely with Slough's Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT), who provide treatment for drug addicts."

Anyone with information about the supply of drugs should contact police on 0845 8 505 505 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.