FIVE people, including a 16-year-old boy, have been arrested in connection with a drug supply network operating in Winchester and Southampton.

Hampshire Constabulary’s Operation Fortress team has been working with Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cheshire forces to target the group.

Four warrants were executed on November 13 and 14, and five people were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and money laundering offences.

During the searches officers seized a quantity of suspected Class A and B drugs and cash.

The following people were arrested: a 28-year-old woman from Haslingden, Lancashire; a 16-year-old boy from Ashton Under Lyne, Greater Manchester; a 22-year-old man from Lymm, Cheshire; a 33-year-old woman from Moston, Greater Manchester; a 58-year-old man from Oldham, Greater Manchester.

They have all been bailed until January 5, 2015.

It comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the supply of drugs in Winchester and Southampton.

Four people have already been convicted of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, resulting in a total of more than 12 years behind bars.

Detective Inspector Amanda Horsburgh said: “I would like to thank Greater Manchester Police, Lancashire Police and Cheshire Police for their support and assistance during these warrants.

“Our ongoing activity demonstrates that we are prepared to travel outside of the county to deal robustly with anyone who comes into Hampshire or the Isle of Wight to deal drugs. An offender may not live in our force area but that certainly doesn’t mean we will turn a blind eye to their offending.

“We will not tolerate individuals who come to Hampshire or the Isle of Wight to deal drugs and exploit the vulnerability of drug users.”

Anyone concerned about crime or anti-social behaviour linked to drugs can speak to police by calling 101, emailing operation.fortress@hampshire.pnn.police.uk, or calling the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, where information can be left anonymously.