Thirty arrests in three-day police operation

During the days of activity, which took place on January 23, 29 and February 6, a total of 16 drug searches were conducted and substances including amphetamine and cannabis were seized.

People were arrested on suspicion of drugs and driving offences, as well as shoplifting, theft, assault and burglary.

Inspector Matt Collings, who organised Operation Cobra, said: “This operation was weeks in the planning and I am extremely pleased that it has been such a resounding success.

“As well as resulting in the arrests and charges of wanted suspects, Operation Cobra has also led to the removal of drugs and dangerous weapons from the streets of Rotherham.

“Drugs are an absolute blight on society. They can, and do, ruin countless lives.

“Through this high-profile, targeted policing work, we have succeeded in dismantling cannabis farms and seizing other substances, including amphetamine.”

Of the 30 people arrested under Operation Cobra, so far eight have been charged and are currently going through the courts.

Two people were cautioned for drugs offences, five have been released due to insufficient evidence and others have been bailed pending further enquiries.

On the first day of action, four warrants were executed and 12 people were arrested.

Weapons and drugs were also recovered from addresses in Swinton, Rotherham.

On the second day, five search warrants were executed and a total of eight people were arrested.

Two cannabis farms were dismantled and one man was taken into custody on a recall to prison.

On the third day of activity, seven search warrants were executed and 10 arrests were made.

One vehicle was recovered, as were quantities of cannabis from two separate addresses.

Supt Paul McCurry said: “I would like to ask the public to ring South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, to report crime or anti-social behaviour, which will help us to plan the next round of operations.”