DRUGS raids were carried out early this morning (Friday) with police making three arrests.

The Comet: A man is led away by an officer after being arrestedA man is led away by an officer after being arrested (Image: Archant)

Around 40 police officers visited eight addresses in Hitchin, entering properties simultaneously just after 7am.

The Comet: Cash and white powder seized from one of the Hitchin propertiesCash and white powder seized from one of the Hitchin properties (Image: Archant)

Significant quantities of white powder – believed to be class A drugs such as cocaine – were seized, as well as drug paraphernalia and large amounts of cash under Operation Scorpion.

Officers arrested a 23-year-old man and a 28-year-old man, both from Hitchin, on suspicion of intent to supply class A drugs.

A 30-year-old woman from Hitchin was arrested on suspicion of possessing class A drugs, while a 26-year-old man, also from the town, was given an £80 fixed penalty for possession of a class B substance.

Those arrested are currently in custody at Stevenage Police Station.

The raids, witnessed by the Comet, follow a previous early morning operation which took place across Hitchin five weeks ago.

“This was a series of warrants as part of an operation targeting class A drug suppliers in Hitchin and the North Herts area, resulting in three arrests for class A drug offences,” Sgt Derek Gray told the Comet.

“Hertfordshire Constabulary take a robust stance on enforcing drug supply offences and the social harm that this illegal trade can cause to communities.

“We do urge anyone with information to come forward as without the support of the community we would not be able to develop the intelligence to put together such enforcement operations.”

If you have information about illegal activity call police on non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

*For more pictures from the raids click on the link at the top right of the page.