Streets cleaned up after drug raids

Many of the police were armed during the raids

The St Paul's area of Bristol is being cleaned-up after one of the biggest anti-drug operations ever seen in the West.

Over eight days recently, 400 police officers - some armed - raided homes across the city in a huge operation against illegal drugs.

The city council is now clearing St Paul's of graffiti, litter and broken windows in an attempt to deter dealers from the area and to show residents that action is being taken.

Police recovered bags of illegal substances including more than 300 rocks of crack cocaine during the operation, codenamed Mansion.

Leaflets

A total of 39 people were arrested during the raids, with 25 charged with drugs or firearms offences.

Seven people have been reported for immigration offences.

Police now want to reassure local residents and are handing out leaflets informing them of what has been happening.

Chief Inspector Ian Smith told BBC Radio: "We have a letter going out to residents which explains the arrests over the last few weeks.

"It also explains our regeneration project, in partnership with the local council, getting rid of the issues which encourage criminality in the first place.

"A run-down area attracts criminality and abuse, and generates a fear of crime," he added.

Extra patrols are also being set up in the area, talking to people about the operation.