Six people have been arrested and charged with conspiracy to supply controlled Class A drugs after a series of raids on houses in Powys.

Properties in Llandrindod Wells, Montgomery, Builth Wells and Newtown have been raided this week as part of a joint operation conducted by the force’s Serious and Organised Crime Team and the National Crime Agency.

All have appeared at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Courts charged with conspiracy to supply controlled Class A drugs. They were all remanded in custody.

Powys Chief Inspector Matt Scrase, who is leading the operation, said the action was part of Operation Regent, the title given to a long and complex investigation targeting so-called 'County Lines' groups who travel to Powys from elsewhere in the UK and set up business with local drug dealers.

"Our action to disrupt supply should clearly demonstrate to travelling criminals that this will not be tolerated in Powys. We may be a rural community but we are a community that works closely with our residents and partners to gather information and respond to their concerns," he said.

"Thankfully, this activity has been having very little impact on the majority of the local communities who are unaware of the problem. Those who have been affected are being updated on activity as warrants are carried out.

"So while we don’t wish to alarm residents, we need to make sure they understand that they may see heightened police activity over the coming weeks and this is the reason why. I’d like to ask for their patience and understanding during this time and if they have concerns at all please call us on 101 or approach an officer.

"I must also urge people to contact us - or Crimestoppers if they would prefer to pass on information anonymously - if they suspect drug dealing or cuckooing in their town, village or street.

"Make sure you’re aware of the signs, such as people coming and going from an address all times of day and night, curtains closed all the time or an increase in anti-social behaviour."