Police target monkey dust supplies

Police have seized almost £20,000, arrested more than 20 people and carried out 18 drug seizures as part of a proactive operation targeting the supply of monkey dust in Staffordshire.

Since the end of November last year, Operation Rivent, which is a force priority, has seen 25 people arrested on suspicion of monkey-dust related offences.

Officers have carried out:

• 18 separate drug seizures including class A, B and C drugs
• The seizure of a significant amount of monkey dust worth around £1.5 million from a van in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent
• A total of eight cash seizures totalling £19,835
• Two weapons seizures and a BB gun seizure
• Three vehicle seizures and six mobile phone seizures.

So far, out of those arrested, six people have been charged with offences ranging from possession with intent to supply, possession of offensive weapons and possession of drug-line phones.

At the end of last month, two people were arrested in Stafford after they failed to appear in court on related offences, while yesterday, a man was remanded into custody after a court appearance at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on monkey dust supply charges.

Work is also ongoing within the force adult public protection unit and partner agencies, including Stoke-on-Trent Community Drug & Alcohol Service (CDAS) and Staffordshire Treatment and Recovery System (STaRS), to support individuals affected by challenges with substances.

Sergeant Robert Emanuel, of Stoke North local policing team, who is involved in the day-to-day response to the impact of the substance in our communities, said: “Responding to individuals who face challenges with substances can be very intensive Each incident and individual we respond to can be very different. Certainly, in the last six months, we have seen a number of reports of individuals suffering with the effects of these substances. It can be quite scary, especially as the effects can be unpredictable, and the substances continue to evolve. That’s why we’re working really hard in our communities to identify those involved in the supply of these substances while also supporting vulnerable people to get the right support.”

A spokesperson from STaRs said: “Synthetic cathinones, sometimes referred to as ‘monkey dust’, can have serious and unpredictable effects on individuals and communities. As the provider of drug and alcohol services across Staffordshire, STaRS are committed to a compassionate approach that focuses on support rather than stigma, recognising that many people affected by substance use are facing complex health, trauma and social challenges. We work closely with partners to provide coordinated support, reduce harm, and improve access to treatment and recovery services. Through intervention, outreach and partnership working, we aim to reduce risk, improve community safety, and help individuals achieve positive, long-term outcomes. We also welcome the continued efforts of police and law enforcement agencies to minimise availability and reduce the ongoing risks.”