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Officers were called to Hill Farm Close yesterday

Five people have been arrested in Southampton's Hill Farm Close for drugs related offences.

Officers were called yesterday afternoon and detained a 32 year old woman and a 36 year old man from the city on suspicion of ‘Possession with intent to supply' class A drugs.

Two other people were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, while an 18 year old man from London was arrested on suspicion of being in ‘Possession' of drugs.

All 5 are currently being questioned by detectives.

Officers also recovered a quantity of what is believed to be Class A drugs which have been sent off for forensic analysis.

Talking of yesterday’s arrests, DS James McMann said: "This brings the total arrested since Op Fortress was launched to 14 and highlights our determination to identify and target those intent on bringing drugs and violence into our city.

"Our message is clear, if you are involved in any way in Class A drugs supply, we will identify you and we will make life very unpleasant for you.   Operation Fortress aims to make Southampton a hostile environment for those involved in this criminal enterprise and to send out a clear message that Hampshire is not a good place for them to pursue their trade.

"Working closely with members of the community is integral in assisting us in combating drug related violence in the city and we want the public to know that they can speak to us with confidence, knowing that we will act when evidence is available to support drug related activity within their neighbourhood.”

Police officers from the local Safer Neighbourhoods teams will be visiting neighbouring properties in the area of yesterday’s arrests to reassure residents and encourage people to call in with information about those thought to be involved in drugs in their community.

Operation Fortress was launched by Hampshire Constabulary on May 30 and is a two year initiative targeting drug-related violence in the city and surrounding areas. It is one of the biggest stand alone projects ever to be launched by the force, with its own dedicated team of officers and staff drawn from across the two counties..

The project is supported by agencies within the Southampton Connect strategic partnership group including Southampton City Council, the Drugs Action Team and drugs treatment services, Hampshire Probation, Southampton Voluntary Services and local NHS partners.

If you have information about anyone believed to be involved in drugs supply, please contact the Operation Fortress team on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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