Armed police arrest man in Weymouth for suspected drug supply and firearms offences

Specialist officers from the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) arrested two men from Hampshire in connection with drugs supply offences.

A 53-year-old man from Southampton was arrested in Islington, London, and a 47-year-old man from Fareham was arrested in Weymouth, both on suspicion of conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to supply cannabis.

The 47-year-old, who was arrested by armed police off Hampshire Road, at around 1pm, was also arrested on suspicion of conspiring to possess or acquire prohibited weapons and conspiring to possess for sale or transfer an unauthorised firearm or ammunition, and on suspicion of fraud by false representation.

SEROCU officers were assisted in carrying out the co-ordinated operation by officers from Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Constabulary’s Joint Operations Unit Tactical Firearms Team and officers from the Metropolitan Police Service.

A spokeswoman for the Counter Terrorism Policing South East and Regional Organised Crime Unit noted that residents in Weymouth may notice 'an increased police presence in the area' but insisted there is no threat to the public.

Detective Inspector Clair Trueman, of SEROCU, said: “These arrests form part of our ongoing work to tackle the supply of drugs and firearms within the South East region.

“Our efforts to disrupt and dismantle organised crime groups within the UK are ongoing. The supply of drugs and firearms cause misery to those affected, along with immeasurable harm to our communities.”

Both arrested men are currently in police custody.