POLICE swooped on a string of properties across Oxfordshire in a series of drugs raids this morning.

Officers carried out a total of 22 warrants under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Seventeen people were arrested during the raids, which were part of an operation conducted by the Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

Warrants were carried out at the following addresses: Arncott Road, Murcott Roman Way, Bicester Ash Grove, Headington Monument Business Park, Chalgrove Radcliffe Road, Oxford Townsend Square, Oxford Franklin Close, Haddenham Holton, Wheatley Balfour Road, Blackbird Leys The Avenue, Worminghall Church Road, Wheatley London Road, Headington Rutten Lane, Yarnton Burgan Close, Cowley Windmill Lane, Wheatley Wootton Road, Wootton Randolph Avenue, Woodstock Two addresses in Cuddesdon Road, Horspath Ferry Road, Marston Banbury Road, Woodstock Old London Road, Wheatley.

Seventeen people were arrested on suspicion of offences including conspiracy to supply controlled drugs, possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply and money laundering.

Police seized ocaine and cannabis, cash and a CS gas canister.

Det Supt David Poole, who led the operation, said: "Today’s arrests are the culmination of an extensive investigation by Thames Valley Police.

"We will take any action necessary to stop the supply of illegal and dangerous drugs, which cause so much harm to our communities.

"My message is if you are involved in selling illegal drugs we will be coming to get you next."