Probe into class A drug dealing in Dorset leads to seizure of large haul of cocaine in Christchurch and arrest of two men

TWO men were arrested and a large haul of cocaine seized in Christchurch.

The South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) led five raids on properties in the town, Bournemouth and Poole on Monday evening.

Officers from both Dorset and Hampshire police supported the operations, carried out as part of a major investigation into class A drug supply in Dorset.

They arrested a 30-year-old at a Christchurch address on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A. Between 15 and 20kg of cocaine was seized there.

A 20-year-old man was arrested nearby for the same offence.

As well as this, a separate raid in the Springbourne area uncovered about £60,000 in cash and another kilo of cocaine.

Drug dealing paraphernalia, including cutting agent, wrappings and other paperwork, were recovered from the other addresses.

Four vehicles were also seized for searches to be carried out.

SWROCU DCI Adam Smith said: “This is a significant investigation into a suspected organised crime group involved in the large-scale supply of cocaine across the county and beyond.

“Work is ongoing to search the properties and recover all potential evidence.

“Our thanks to the officers from Dorset Police who continue to support SWROCU in furthering the investigation.”