A CANNABIS factory was uncovered and several people were arrested for drug offences following a day of police action in Salisbury and Amesbury.

As part of Operation Harness, Wiltshire Police executed 14 warrants on Thursday morning with the aim of tackling drugs and counterfeit currency.

Specialist drugs dogs were used to help search addresses and among the recovered or seized items were counterfeit currency, a bike valued at £5,000, £4,000 in cash, mobile phones and an imitation firearm.

Five men were arrested: a 24-year-old on suspicion of possession of class B drugs and money laundering; a 30-year-old for possession with intent to supply class B drugs; a 35-year-old for possession of counterfeit currency; an 18-year-old for possession with intent to supply class B drugs and theft; and a 42-year-old for cultivating cannabis.

One street warning for cannabis was issued and one person was reported for a drugs offence.

Insp Andy Noble of said: “The activity focussed on the disruption of drugs supply, antisocial behaviour related to drug crime and the use of counterfeit currency in the Salisbury area.

“We are working closely with the community to improve safety and to prevent drug related crime and are grateful for the assistance we have received which enabled us to take this positive action.”

The operation in Salisbury was observed by Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson.

He said: “Days like this should reassure people in southern Wiltshire that the constabulary does have the resources to mount significant operations. The raids should also send out a clear message to the public that those people dealing in drugs will be identified, arrested and put before a court.

“I was impressed by the preparation for today’s operation and by the professional manner in which it was carried out.”

To report drug-related crime, contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.