A NUMBER of suspected drug dealers were arrested earlier today (June 27) as police carried out a series of co-ordinated dawn raids in Blackpool.

Officers from the Constabulary's six divisions and Headquarters took part in the operation in support of the Safer Streets in Lancashire campaign by targeting drug dealing activity in the town.

Warrants were executed at 20 addresses and 15 individuals were arrested, all of whom will be questioned about suspected drug supply offences.

The operation began around 7am when more than 20 personnel carriers and other police vehicles left central police station and travelled to the target areas. Specialist officers included search teams and dog handlers with drug detection sniffer dogs.

Det Chief Insp Stuart Williams said: "The police have been gathering intelligence for some time and, as a result of working closely with communities and local partners, have been able to successfully carry out this operation.

"This is just one tactic we employ to tackle street level dug dealing in Blackpool and the Fylde and it follows closely on the heels of the recent Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) operation targeting the problem of drugs being brought into the area.

"By using these and a number of other ongoing initiatives it is hoped we can effectively disrupt the drugs market.

"We are looking to people who live, work and socialise in Blackpool to assist us by providing information about suspected drugs dealers, either directly to officers or through the confidential Crimestoppers number (0800) 555 111."

Leaflets and Community Drug Information Packs are being distributed to households in the target areas containing information on the different types of drugs and the serious risks linked to drug taking. They also include information on how to get help, and life saving information to help anyone suffering from a bad reaction to taking drugs.