Operation Harbourlight shines a light on tackling drug dealing in Torquay

Police in Torquay have revealed their latest operational results following seven days of proactive work to tackle drug dealing in the area and help reassure the local community.

Officers carried out their latest day of action earlier this month as part of Operation Harbourlight. This was the seventh proactive day of its kind concentrating mainly on the Castle Circus area of the town and highlighting issues linked to drugs.   

Over the summer and autumn this year officers carried out a total of seven days of action, beginning on 25 June.

Inspector Rob Harvey, who heads up the Torquay Neighbourhood Police Team, explained: “We want to show the community that we take drug offences very seriously and want to reassure residents and visitors of Torquay that we will be proactive and bring offenders to justice. Drug dealing is not a victimless crime and we are satisfied with the results we achieved during Operation Harbourlight. 

“We would like to thank the public for their support and remind them that they can hand over information to us and it will be acted upon. We will keep the pressure up on drug dealers in South Devon.”

The total results from Op Harbourlight are:

Tackling the supply of illegal drugs is a priority for police teams across Devon and Cornwall.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “Drugs and alcohol is one of the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan. The detrimental impact of drug dealing on residents, businesses and visitors in Torquay is one of the reasons my office launched successful project Street Focus in the town around 18 months ago to help tackle drugs, shoplifting and antisocial behaviour. 

“These targeted days of action by the police send out a clear message that it won’t be tolerated. Importantly, they run alongside other ongoing efforts including hotspot policing in Castle Circus which is funded by a Home Office grant which my office secured. 

“It is very important for the community to have confidence that the police will act on the intelligence that they provide.  

 “It is also vital that victims and people who are struggling with addiction receive the right help.  Free support is available from our Victim Care website - Home - Victim Care Devon & Cornwall - where people can learn more about the wide range of free services available.”   

To report concerns of illegal activity or to log non-urgent crimes happening in your area, please visit the force website or call 101.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org

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