Staffordshire Police has seized almost £20,000, arrested more than 20 people and carried out 18 drug seizures as part of a proactive operation targeting the supply of monkey dust in Staffordshire.

Since the end of November last year, Operation Rivent, which is a "force priority", has seen 25 people arrested on suspicion of monkey-dust related offences.

Officers have also carried out 18 separate drug seizures including class A, B and C drugs, eight cash seizures totalling £19,835, two weapons seizures, a BB gun seizure, three vehicle seizures and six mobile phone seizures.

Additionally, the a significant amount of monkey dust worth around £1.5 million was seized from a van in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent.

Superintendent Phil Bryan, who leads Operation Rivent, said: "Since November last year, we have worked diligently across departments to gather and analyse intelligence, develop community impact plans, identify key networks and individuals we believe to be involved in the supply of monkey dust and related substances in Staffordshire.

"This work continues at pace and we are beginning to see some positive outcomes through liaising with the Crown Prosecution Service to pursue offenders and partners in the community to support vulnerable people.

"Partnership working continues to be key in addressing the impact of these substances in our communities and that also includes developing vital intelligence from members of the public.

"I would urge anyone who has any information about drug supply in their area to get in touch with us, so we can continue to take action to protect the public from the devastating impact these substances have on individuals and our communities."

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So far, out of those arrested, six people have been charged with offences ranging from possession with intent to supply, possession of offensive weapons and possession of drug-line phones.

At the end of last month, (Wednesday 29 April), two people were arrested in Stafford after they failed to appear in court on related offences.

Yesterday (Thursday 7 May), a man was remanded into custody after a court appearance at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on monkey dust supply charges.

Sergeant Robert Emanuel, of the Stoke North local policing team, is involved in the day-to-day response to the impact of the substance in Staffordshire communities.

She said: "Responding to individuals who face challenges with substances can be very intensive. Each incident and individual we respond to can be very different.

"Certainly, in the last six months, we have seen a number of reports of individuals suffering with the effects of these substances.

"It can be quite scary, especially as the effects can be unpredictable, and the substances continue to evolve.

"That's why we're working really hard in our communities to identify those involved in the supply of these substances while also supporting vulnerable people to get the right support."

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Staffordshire Police explained that work is ongoing within their adult public protection unit and partner agencies, including Stoke-on-Trent Community Drug & Alcohol Service (CDAS) and Staffordshire Treatment and Recovery System (STaRS), to support individuals affected by challenges with substances.

A spokesperson from STaRs said: "Synthetic cathinones, sometimes referred to as 'monkey dust', can have serious and unpredictable effects on individuals and communities.

"As the provider of drug and alcohol services across Staffordshire, STaRS are committed to a compassionate approach that focuses on support rather than stigma, recognising that many people affected by substance use are facing complex health, trauma and social challenges.

"We work closely with partners to provide coordinated support, reduce harm, and improve access to treatment and recovery services.

"Through intervention, outreach and partnership working, we aim to reduce risk, improve community safety, and help individuals achieve positive, long-term outcomes. We also welcome the continued efforts of police and law enforcement agencies to minimise availability and reduce the ongoing risks."

Vicki Nash, Head of Service Delivery at CDAS, said: "Many people believe that because there's no substitute medication for synthetic cathinones like 'monkey dust,' there's nothing that can be done to help. But people do recover, and specialist support makes a real difference.

"Our partnership with Staffordshire Police provides a clear route to free, confidential help for anyone affected by synthetic cathinones - and we work alongside mental health, housing, employment, and criminal justice services to make sure people get support with everything they're dealing with.

"If you're concerned about yourself or someone else, call 01782 283 113 or email [email protected]."

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