Police arrest eight in targeted operation

Plain-clothed police in Torquay were involved in arresting eight people in an operation targeting drugs and anti-social behaviour in the town centre.

Devon and Cornwall Police said they were responding to concerns from local communities about drug use and shoplifting from local businesses.

The operation led to eight arrests and six stop and searches.

Those arrested were wanted for a number of offences, including arson, rape, fraud and handling stolen goods.

Officers said all cases remain under investigation and there were five seizures of illegal drugs, including spice and cannabis.

Sgt Greg Bustin who led one team of police officers involved, said: “This was a positive operation for the team.

"Not only did we seize a quantity of illegal drugs, we successfully removed a number of dangerous people from the community who were in hiding in an attempt to avoid arrest.

“I’d like to thank the community for their reports and intelligence. This information provided enabled us to locate and arrest a wanted offender and is a great example of working together with the community to stand against criminals.”

Follow BBC Devon on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.

Related internet links

More on this story