POLICE in Hampshire have been praised for their efforts in cracking down on drugs trafficking.

Between October 11 and October 17, Hampshire Constabulary took part in the National County Lines Intensification Week.

Throughout the week of action, warrants were issued at a number of addresses and welfare checks were made on the vulnerable.

A total of 43 arrests were made, 59 people were safeguarded, including children and items such as drugs, mobile phones, money and weapons were seized.

The action also saw police head into schools and conducting patrols to target known drugs hotspots.

Now the force has been praised for their efforts by newly elected Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Hampshire, Donna Jones.

Hampshire Chronicle: PCC, Donna Jones.PCC, Donna Jones.

The PCC said: "We all know the misery that drugs can cause, but the criminal exploitation of children and vulnerable adults, as well as increasing use of violence, that is an inherent part of county lines makes it especially damaging.

“I welcome the focus on disrupting these networks and the targeting of individuals involved during the past week. With 43 arrests, and the seizure of 269 wraps of crack cocaine, 265 wraps of heroin and other drugs, plus the seizure of 5 knives and 6 air weapons, 63 mobile phones and £50,000 in cash this has been an excellent result for the Constabulary.

“I am pleased that along with the arrests and seizures, a number of individuals have been safeguarded as a result of the police action and that the welfare of those who are vulnerable to exploitation has been a priority alongside enforcement.”