A man has been arrested by specialist officers from the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU) in connection with the supply of controlled drugs and money laundering offences. 

The man, from Wokingham, was arrested today (26/4) after SEROCU officers executed warrants at two premises in Wokingham, Berkshire, with support from Thames Valley Police officers. 

The 55-year-old was arrested on suspicion of: 

• Being concerned in the supply of Class A, B and C controlled drugs (diamorphine, tramadol and diazepam). 
• Evading prohibition/restriction on the exporting of a Class A drug (diamorphine) contrary to the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979. 
• Concealing, disguising, converting and transferring criminal property.  

The arrest is in connection with an investigation in to the supply of controlled drugs via the postal system. 

Officers located a substantial amount of drugs and cash during the operation. 

Detective Inspector Rob Bryant, of SEROCU’s South East Regional Cyber Crime Unit, said: “The warrants which have taken place show our commitment to tackling serious and organised criminality in the communities of the South East; such as the supply and exportation of controlled drugs. Our action sends out a clear message to organised criminal groups who are increasingly using the dark web to commit such offences, that crime really does not pay. 

“For those who are purchasing non-prescribed medication, my message to you is that only medication prescribed by medical professionals is safe to take. If you buy medication which has not been prescribed, you face the risk of very serious health consequences. If the medication you are taking is not made by the legitimate manufacturer, its contents may be ineffective, cut with other unknown substances or even dangerous to your health. The funds from its sale are also likely to be supporting organised crime groups. 

“If you are concerned about the supply of drugs in your community please report this to your local police force or anonymously, via the independent charity Crimestoppers.” 

The arrested man is currently in police custody. 

Drug dealing in your community can be reported by calling your local police force on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. 

-ENDS-