Three arrested in corner shop vape raid after students fall ill

Avon & Somerset Police’s Neighbourhood Team for Weston-Supe-Mare have arrested three males on conspiracy to supply a Class B drug

“A spokesperson for Avon & Somerset Police said; “We work closely with education providers, and information was shared with police that Weston Supermarket on St James Street had been supplying college‑age students with THC vapes.”

“Several students subsequently became unwell.”

“Earlier today, officers from the Town Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team, supported by colleagues from the Neighbourhood Tasking Team and North Somerset Council's Trading Standards, carried out an unannounced visit to Weston Supermarket on St James Street, Weston‑super‑Mare.”

“Three males were arrested on suspicion of Conspiracy to Supply and Being Concerned in the Supply of a Class B drug.”

”In addition, a quantity of counterfeit tobacco, cigarettes, and cash were seized. This resulted in the store being closed prematurely, which understandably caused frustration for some regular customers”

”If you come into our town to run a legitimate business, we welcome you with open arms. Our message to organised criminal networks is clear: if you or your business is involved in supplying illegal drugs to young people, we will come for you. It is only a matter of time - your business will be next.”

“To those owner‑operators who reside outside our force area: we know who you are, and your time will come.”

”Local Neighbourhood Teams share vital information and intelligence with the Regional Organised Crime Unit, while also working hard at a local level to disrupt and deter organised criminals.”

“We will continue to make Weston‑super‑Mare a hostile environment for such networks and will proactively target money‑laundering and drug‑supply operations.”“