Reading: Drug Raids - 11 charged

9 October 2013, 12:12 | Updated: 9 October 2013, 12:13

11 people have been charged in connection with raids targeting drugs in Reading.

The searches of 22 addresses in the Woodley, Tilehurst and Earley areas were carried out by more than 170 police officers on Tuesday 8th October 2013 to crack down on the supply of drugs in the town. 

A total of 16 people were arrested, 11 of which have since been charged with a range of offences including conspiracy to supply class A controlled drugs, money laundering, possession with intent to supply and shoplifting. 

Two further arrests were made on the morning of Wednesday 9th October 2013 in connection with this operation. 

Thames Valley Police have told Heart they've known for "the best part of a year", class A drugs like heroin have been dealt through Reading and the raids were carried out after an intense six month investigation.

Local police commander, Supt Stuart Greenfield, said: “I hope this operation sends out a strong message to the communities of Reading that Thames Valley Police is taking the fight to both organised crime and drugs on our streets.

“The operation was supported by the local neighbourhood teams and additional patrols will be carried out in these areas to offer reassurance to local residents.”