Operation Scorpion 15 delivers strong results across the South West

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.

In Gloucestershire, officers visited licensed premises alongside Project Vigilant to help educate staff, safeguard vulnerable adults and to prevent sexual violence.

Three men were arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class A drug, and have been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Roads Policing officers also carried out patrols with one man arrested and subsequently charged for possession of a Class A drug.

During the operation, officers also seized a quantity of cocaine and cash.

Chief Superintendent Rebecca Love for Gloucestershire Police said: “Our officers are disrupting the activity of drug dealers every day of every year, but with Operation Scorpion we are able to intensify this action and target specific areas of this illicit trade.

“For this particular operation, we have targeted those who are supplying into our night-time economies. We have also looked at those using drugs recreationally, as that can be a very significant part of the issue.

“We have not just warned people about the consequences of taking drugs into pubs and clubs, but we have also educated them on where they can get help and support."

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
• Spice, Ketamine, MDMA and amphetamines 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.

Chris Nelson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire, said: “Operation Scorpion has been driven by the South West’s Police and Crime Commissioners to send a clear message – we do not tolerate illegal drugs in our communities.

“During this week, alongside strong enforcement from our excellent proactive policing units, my Office worked closely with the NHS and VIA, the drug and alcohol support service in the county, to help reduce demand for these drugs and get people into treatment. We created materials specifically about ketamine, as it’s a drug that’s seen more and more young people unwittingly becoming addicted to it, often with devastating consequences.

“Drugs are not a victimless crime and there are so many unknown dangers associated with illegal drug taking. I hope this week of activity has helped to raise awareness as well as enforce the law onto those who choose to deal in illegal drugs.”

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.