FIVE arrests have been made following a series of police raids across North Herts, London and Oxford yesterday (Wednesday).

The raids were part of Operation Crystal, which targets the illegal drugs market in Hertfordshire.

Eight warrants were carried out by 60 police officers, who recovered substances believed to be cannabis and crack cocaine, as well as almost �3,000 in cash.

A 26-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman from Stevenage were arrested for possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply, and possession of Class B drugs. They have been police bailed until December 7.

A 31-year-old man, who was arrested in Hitchin on suspicion of breaching bail conditions, has been remanded in custody.

A 25-year-old man from Stevenage was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property. He was police bailed until December 7.

A 37-year-old man from Oxford was arrested on suspicion of possessing criminal property and possessing cannabis. He has been police bailed until December 5.

A woman from Stevenage was also given a cannabis warning for possession of Class B drugs.

Detective Inspector Dave Wheatley, from Herts Police’s Serious and Organised Crime Group, said: “We are targeting criminals who get involved in dealing drugs to vulnerable members of society.

“Illegal drugs have a significant and destructive impact, not just on the lives of users but also on their friends, family and the general community around them.

“We want the criminals to know that we will not tolerate illegal drugs in Hertfordshire. We will proactively run robust operations to tackle the perpetrators and, if you are involved, we will be knocking on your door some time every soon.”

Call Herts Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with information about drug dealing. You can also send an anonymous message via www.herts.police.uk (under Drugs section of Operation Crystal) using a secure online form. Your personal details cannot be traced.