Operation Scorpion 15 delivers strong results across the region

Police forces across the South West have successfully concluded Operation Scorpion 15 (OS15), a regionally coordinated crackdown on drug-related criminality, delivering significant results in tackling supply, protecting communities and strengthening public confidence.

Taking place between 22 and 28 June 2026, Operation Scorpion 15 brought together police forces from Avon and Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, supported by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and British Transport Police. This united approach demonstrates the power of cross-border collaboration in addressing the complex and evolving threat posed by illegal drugs, in this case focusing on pubs, clubs and other parts of the night time economy.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman for Devon & Cornwall Police, the operational lead for OS15, said: “Operation Scorpion is an established and proven initiative, now in its fifteenth iteration, designed to make the South West a hostile environment for drug dealers and those involved in associated criminality. Each phase of the operation continues to deliver strong results, with OS15 maintaining that track record of success through coordinated enforcement and intelligence-led activity.”

Across the region, results included:

• 103 arrests
• 16 adults and children safeguarded
• Over 5kg of Class A drugs seized
• 24kg of cannabis seized
• £81,747 cash seized
• 8 weapons and 4 firearms seized
• Along with 5kg Class A drugs, spice, ketamine, MDMA and amphetamine  were also seized.

Throughout the week, officers focused on disrupting the supply and use of drugs within the night-time economy, including pubs, clubs and licensed venues. Increased patrols and targeted activity were carried out across towns and cities throughout the region, ensuring a visible and proactive policing presence during peak times.

The operation is underpinned by a clear objective: not only to target those involved in drug supply, but also to reduce the harm drugs cause, including violence, exploitation and anti-social behaviour. By combining enforcement with safeguarding, police worked closely with partners such as street pastors, venue security staff, taxi marshals and support services to identify and assist vulnerable individuals.

As part of a balanced approach, officers also utilised diversion and support schemes for individuals found in possession of drugs for personal use, recognising that prevention and rehabilitation play an important role alongside enforcement.

Devon & Cornwall Police carried out seven warrants and made 19 checks on licensed premises, and made a particularly significant seizure of 2 kilograms of spice with an estimated street value of £44,000 plus £8,000 in cash in Exeter.

Devon & Cornwall Police Drugs Liaison Officer DC Nick Burnett said: “Spice is a particularly dangerous synthetic cannabinoid. Depending on its chemical structure of the effects can last between one and six hours and can leave the user wanting more and taking larger doses.

“Spice was designed to mimic cannabis, but synthetic cannabinoids can overstimulate the serotonin system which can lead to high fever, rapid pulse, confusion, convulsion, organ failure and ultimately death. It is very satisfying that this large amount has been taken out of circulation and now cannot end up being sold on the streets or in the night time economy.”

British Transport Police worked together with Devon & Cornwall Police for the first two days of the operation, then worked with Dorset Police.

British Transport Police County Lines Taskforce lead, Supt David Udomhiaye said: “Joint operations like this are proven to be a highly effective method of striking at the heart of criminal activity, pooling our resources to make a substantial dent in the operations of drug suppliers.

“Intelligence led targeting of stations with high visibility policing combined with plain clothes officers means we can direct our teams to where they are needed most.

“Our County Lines Taskforce deployed to Plymouth, Bournemouth, and Weymouth stations over a four-day period and the results speak for themselves. We made a number of arrests and safeguarding interventions.

"If you’re using the railway to sell drugs, your days of doing so are numbered."

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly said: “I went out with officers in Plymouth who were making arrests as part of this operation. Alongside the firm action to disrupt organised criminal groups we also need to tackle the root causes of drug use. That’s why I am such an advocate of organisations that work to deliver effective treatment for those battling drug addiction and protect young people from exploitation.

“I would like to thank members of the public who continue to report drug crime either via the police or anonymously via Crimestoppers. I would encourage anyone who is struggling with drug abuse, or knows someone who is, to reach out for support.”

Police are continuing to urge the public to play their part. Community intelligence remains vital in tackling drug-related activity, and residents are encouraged to report concerns. Information can be shared directly with police by calling 101, or 100% anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Operation Scorpion will continue to form a key part of the region’s strategy to combat drug-related harm, with future operations building on the success of OS15 to keep South West communities safe.
 

Devon & Cornwall Police – OS15 results

32 arrests

13 charges

4 adults safeguarded

4 weapons seized (e.g. knives, hammers etc)

2 guns seized

£26,654 cash seized

5.5kg of Heroin, Spice, Cocaine and Crack seized