EXTENSIVE’ intelligence gathering carried out by South Yorkshire Police resulted in an organised crime disruption day taking thousands of pounds and drugs off the streets.

Operation Fortify returned to the town last Thursday which focused on dismantling drugs lines in the Barnsley North East Policing Team’s villages.

During an early-morning raid in Grimethorpe, officers found a quantity of suspected crack cocaine and around £10,000 in cash.

A 21-year-old man, and two women aged 21 and 62, were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply but have since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Officers were looking for suspicious vehicles which have been used by criminals looking to take advantage of the road networks in and out of the borough to conduct illegal activity.

A spokesperson said: “This builds on the existing work the neighbourhood policing team is doing around disrupting criminal gangs who are moving between South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire to deliver and supply drugs.

“We know that it isn’t just the main road network which criminals use to conduct illegal activity, with many choosing to use off-road bikes or quads to attempt to get around without being noticed.

“Our motorcycle team was also in the area, conducting patrols in the more rural areas, spotting those who choose to use off-road vehicles illegally and dangerously.

“Two off-road bikes were seized by officers, in addition to four traffic offence reports issued.

“Days of action such as these cannot happen without the intelligence you submit as a member of the public.

“You know your local area better than anyone and do not deserve for it to be ruined by the small group of people who choose to be involved in serious organised criminality.”

Significant inroads have been made in recent months with improving conviction rates, with particular successes in the policing team’s district which covers villages such as Cudworth, Grimethorpe, Monk Bretton, Royston and Shafton.

The police say a key part of the recent purple patch in the last 12 months has been the public’s willingness to report those who they have suspicions about.

Inspector Richard Mangham told the Chronicle: “It’s important to emphasise that a lot of these arrests, charges and convictions could not have happened without the public’s help.

“They’re the ones who have really taken on what we’re trying to achieve with ridding drugs from our communities.

“A lot has been done with West Yorkshire Police, too, as we’re aware that given this area’s on-the-border location, many criminals do cross county lines.

“That joined-up working will continue and it’s something that’s still very much a priority for us.

“I encourage the residents of Barnsley to continue to tell us about the issues you are facing within your community.

“We will listen and we will continue to work hard to ensure more criminals are put behind bars.

“If you see your local officers out and about in your area, please do stop and speak to them if you have any concerns as they are there to help.

“You can also report to us on 101 or using our online portal on our website.”