Five arrests have been made in Hertfordshire as part of a long-running investigation into organised groups and the supply of drugs within the county.

Officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Command executed warrants for five individuals with links to organised crime and drug supply networks.

Ian Harris, 49, from Hertford was charged with conspiracy to supply controlled drugs and is now remanded into custody.

Four other people who were arrested have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

This includes:

• A woman, 36, from Hertford who was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs with Intent to supply, profiting from or concealing proceeds of crime

• A man, 32, from Bushey who was arrested on suspicion possession of Class A drugs with Intent to supply

• A man, 56, from Watford who was arrested on suspicion of cultivation of cannabis

• A man, 35, from Abbots Langley who was arrested on suspicion conspiracy to supply controlled drugs

Superintendent Matt Thompson, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Command, said: “We conducted Operation Relentless in partnership with the NCA, Europol and other forces across the UK and Europe making a series of important arrests, seizing cash and drugs, as well as gathering huge amount of intelligence on organised crime groups operating across the continent.

“This was an effective collaborative operation working with colleagues in various agencies at local, regional and national level to disrupt organised crime groups operating across borders. This joined up approach means we can target criminals impacting on our county even if they are based in other countries.

“Through Operation Relentless we have made significant progress over the past year, making important arrests, disrupting the activities of these OCGs and dismantling their networks. We are continuing to work with our partners in other forces and agencies to make sure we take a joined up approach and pursue them wherever they may be hiding.”

If you suspect criminal activity is happening in your area, contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number 101, report online at herts.police.uk/report, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you are part of a gang or believe you are being coerced or exploited by criminal gang members you can get help and advice at www.fearless.org,