Thousands of pounds in cash has been recovered by police in West Cumbria, in a week of action that saw them carry out a series of raids and make a dozen arrests.

Police have carried out 15 raids with suspected drugs criminals, those carrying out rural crime and bad drivers among those targeted.

Officers have acted on community concerns and sent a warning out to criminals as they aim to deter and tackle crime and keeping people safe.

Inspector Richard Smillie said: “Our officers work round-the-clock for the community taking part in this type of action all-year-round.

“What this Week of Action has done is highlighted this work and sent out a clear warning message to criminals: We are no soft touch.

“After this week we will continue to work with our partners to look at associated issues. For instance, where drug crimes are identified we will work with housing partners to look at any relevant tenancies.

“If criminals out there are in any doubt we take these issues seriously then this should serve notice that we will not stand for this type of activity in our communities.”

Officers shone the spotlight on their work as they carried out visible drugs warrants, conducted deterrent operations and offered crime-busting advice to people.

In total police in a week, have:

  • Officers conducted 15 warrants.
  • Twelve arrests were made across west Cumbria by officers from the area’s Proactive teams.
  • 18 dogs were seized under the Animal Welfare Act.
  • Two vehicles were seized under suspicion of being used in crime.
  • About £10,000 in cash was recovered.
  • Many vehicles were stopped in rural areas in relation to suspected rural crime.
  • There were stop searches under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Superintendent Carl Patrick added: “Officers and staff have worked tirelessly over the last week to carry out this action.

“As the activities show, they have been listening to community concerns, acting on intelligence and targeting the issues people care about.

“Criminals should take note of what has been done and they can rest assured more is to come.”