Dawn raids across the region this morning (Thursday 18) led to four men being arrested as part of a crackdown on suspected drug dealers.
Police officers from Sandwell swooped on the addresses following an investigation into the supply of drugs across the borough.
A 46-year-old man from Albert Road in Aston, a 38-year-old man from Foleshill Road, Coventry, a 37-year-old man from Cumberland Road, Hateley Heath and a 23-year-old man from Grestone Avenue in Handsworth were all arrested on suspicion of drug offences.
The police move was sparked when Neighbourhood Watch members reported their suspicions over kerbside cash exchanges.
Today’s action brings the total of people arrested as part of the operation to nine.
On Tuesday (16 September) two men aged 20 and 23 from Taverners Green, Birmingham, were arrested along with a 24-year-old man from Selston Road, Aston and a 20-year-old Westminster Road, Handsworth were arrested on suspicion of conspiring to supply drugs.
A 17-year-old boy from Handsworth was also arrested at an address in Birmingham accused of bribery.
Those five all appeared before magistrates on Wednesday and were remanded into custody to re-appear on Wednesday 1 October.
Inspector Akeel Najib, for police in north Sandwell, said: “We have spent a long time gathering intelligence on these individuals, so naturally we are satisfied with the arrests made over the two days. However, we’re not complacent and our blitz on dealers continues.
“Drugs can have a huge negative impact on communities and residents are affected not only by the drug dealing and use itself but also by the associated anti-social behaviour that often occurs.”
Anyone affected by drug crime is urged to call their police on 101. Alternatively people can leave information anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
For information on Neighbourhood Watch visit: http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/
Photograph: One of the arrested men is led away by officers.
