Arrests in police raids

Stolen property and £1,000 cash was also recovered following raids on houses in the Broadwaters, Offmore, Comberton and Greenhill areas of Kidderminster.

Twelve officers from West Mercia Police targeted homes of suspects believed to be involved in crimes including possession of drugs with intent to supply and money laundering.

This followed tip-offs from the public made through the confidential Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.

Police said today that more drug busts were planned and hailed the operation a success.

Sgt Kevin Lane, of Kidderminster police, said: "This latest operation was extremely successful and as well as the arrests, useful intelligence was gathered.

"A quantity of crack cocaine, cannabis and more than £1,000 in cash were recovered, together with suspected stolen property.

"Community support officers delivered more than 200 leaflets informing members of the local community that offenders had been arrested.

"We hope local residents will be reassured by the operation and come forward with any information about drug dealing or crime to Kidderminster police on 08457 444888."

Thirteen people were arrested following the raids, which were carried out on Friday. Of those four were charged, seven were released on police bail, one was cautioned and another was released without charge.

A further two people were arrested yesterday and were said to be helping police with their inquiries.

Following the crackdown a new community police office is set to be opened in Windermere House in Grassmere Close in the Horsefair area of Kidderminster in the next few weeks.