THREE people are being questioned by police today following a series of drugs busts across a Southampton community.

A total of 55 police officers were involved in the raids which saw four council homes searched in Millbrook.

Officers in the new safer neighbourhood team for the community were involved in the operation which began at 10.45am.

It followed intelligence that highlighted issues concerning the possession and supply of Class A drugs.

They were assisted by staff from the Force Support Unit drafted in to help break-down the front doors of the flats to gain entry.

The remaining three properties were then raided in quick succession, police confirmed.

Stunned neighbours watched on as police teams pounced on their first location, forcing in the door at the flat in Chiltern Green.

A second property was also raided there followed by another two flats in nearby Honister Close.

Sergeant Kerry Loveless, head of the safer neighbourhoods team for Millbrook, said: "We carried out what we call a rapid entry operation.

"The aim was to disrupt the supply and use of Class A drugs in Millbrook. We also wanted to provide the community with reassurance that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated."

Sgt Loveless, who is based at Shirley police station, added: "Millbrook is an area that is affected by substance abuse and it is something that has been drawn to our attention by the local community."

Throughout yesterday afternoon police community support officers were back in the Millbrook area, delivering letters to homes explaining what had happened.

They were also urging people who have information or may be concerned to contact police.

Southampton City council were also called to the scene to help repair the doors that had been damaged at the council properties during the raids.

A 40-year-old man was today still helping police with inquiries over possession of Class A drugs, a 35-year-old arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and a 40-year-old woman being held in police custody for being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

A fourth person, a male, was released on street bail.