A MAN has been charged with drugs and weapon offences as police continue their operation to tackle suspected county lines drug gangs in Dorset.

Officers from the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Neighbourhood Enforcement Team (NET) working in partnership with officers from the Metropolitan Police, arrested a 49-year-old man at an address in Poole on Thursday, June 9, during intelligence-led patrols.

The man, from Poole, has now been charged with two counts of possession with intent to supply class A drugs, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, possession of a bladed article in a public place and obstructing a police officer.

Inspector Nick Lee, of the NET, said: “This is another example of successful partnership working with the Metropolitan Police and highlights the outstanding work neighbourhood teams are carrying out in our communities.

“Our persistent pursuit of those suspected of being involved in county lines drugs operations is working and we will continue to disrupt the activities of individuals and gangs believed to be dealing drugs in communities.

“I would encourage any members of the community to report their concerns to Dorset Police so we can investigate and take action.”

Operation Viper sees a dedicated team of police working alongside local neighbourhood policing teams to use intelligence and enforcement to tackle suspected county lines gangs.

The initiative aims to provide visibility, proactive enforcement and community engagement, as well as a dedicated county lines task force, to disrupt incoming suspected drug networks.