Text warning after drug operation

Police have sent text messages to nearly 670 suspected drug users after arresting 17 men in an early-morning drugs raid in St Albans, Hertfordshire.

The arrests, on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, follow a 10-month investigation.

Police also sent text messages to 668 phone numbers they found thought to be of regular cocaine users.

The text messages said no action would be taken against the users and offered receivers help to kick drug addictions.

The recipients were also directed to a website with links to the Talk to Frank drugs advice website where they can get help.

Ch Insp Richard Hann said: "We intend to make St Albans a difficult place for drug dealers to engage in this type of activity."