Drugs seized and two arrests after Paignton police raid on local pubs

Police in Paignton have hailed a recent Pubs Against Drugs (PAD) operation as a “big success,” following visits to eight licensed premises in the town.

The operation, which took place on Friday 9 January, involved multiple positive searches, the recovery of Class A and Class B drugs, and the arrest of two men – one wanted on warrant and another in connection with domestic violence offences.

Police drugs dog Jasper assisted during the visits, alongside officers from various South Devon and force teams, as well as Special Constables volunteering their time.

Paignton Inspector Pete Giesens, who leads the local Neighbourhood Police Team, said:

“I am very pleased with the results of this Pubs Against Drugs operation. Officers worked hard to do a thorough job while engaging with licensees and bar staff, as well as door security officers. We would like to thank all licensees and pub staff for their co-operation on the night.

“We will continue to tackle drug dealing in our community and want to reassure the public that we take this issue very seriously and will be running future operations of this type.”

Inspector Giesens also praised the contribution of Special Constables, including three new recruits who “took to the operation with massive enthusiasm” and were “exceptional and worthy of recognition.”

Police & Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez joined officers on the night, praising their efforts and describing the operation as “professional and courteous” with “great” results.

“It was encouraging to see little sign of drug use at many of the licensed premises we visited, and it was heartwarming to see people out enjoying themselves and keeping our pubs afloat,” she said.

“Tackling drugs remains one of our key priorities because residents want it pushed out of their communities. Operations such as Pubs Against Drugs show it will not be tolerated and action will be taken.”

The PAD initiative in Paignton follows similar operations in Torquay and Brixham, where officers, supported by specialist police dogs, have carried out stop searches, drug-wipe testing, and inspections in licensed premises with positive outcomes.

Inspector Giesens confirmed that such operations will continue, aimed at keeping venues safe for both staff and visitors. 

Residents are encouraged to report drug dealing to police on 101, via the Devon & Cornwall Police website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.