WEAPONS, drugs and cash were all seized as police arrested seven people as part of Operation Fortress.

Raids were carried out today (July 28) at addresses in Pinkerton Road, Oakridge Road, Castle Road, Copland Close and Jefferson Road.

From the properties officers seized a quantity of drugs, suspected to be class A, along with weapons including machetes and axes.

The seven arrest are a 21-year-old man from London, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, an 18-year-old man from London, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs, a 22-year-old man from Basingstoke, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug. a 49-year-old man from Basingstoke, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug, a 39-year-old man of no fixed abode, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a class A drug, possession of a controlled drug of class A and burglary, a 20-year-old man from London, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of heroin and man, arrested on suspicion of being concerned in offer to supply a class A drug.

All seven men arrested are currently in police custody.

Sergeant Carl Holmes, of the Basingstoke Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Class A drugs such as heroin and crack cocaine can blight the lives of users, their families and the local community.

“We are committed to disrupting drug dealers and tackling any associated violence and anti-social behaviour.

“The message from today is clear – if you come to Basingstoke to deal drugs, expect to be arrested and prosecuted.

“Operations like the one today are only possible with the help of the community. If you have any concerns about drug-related activity where you live, then please call 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.”

Operation Fortress is a campaign aimed at reducing the harm of drug-related violence. One of the aims is to restrict the supply of class A drugs and officers are keen to hear from anyone who is concerned about illegal drugs or drug-related crime in their neighbourhood.

If you have any concerns, call police on 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

If you don't want to speak to the police directly, you can call the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.