A number of offensive weapons and a haul of drugs were seized by police in a series of raids on properties in Ayr North.

Officers, acting on intelligence that had been gathered, set out on the stings at five seperate properties last night around 8pm.

The addresses they targeted were in Princes Court, Nelson Place and Philip Square.

There were 12 people arrested or charged for offences including breach of bail, supply and possession of controlled drugs and possession of offensive weapons.

Alleged dealer quantities of drugs thought to be cocaine, cannabis and heroin were recovered at some of the addresses.

Two men, aged 19 and 35, will appear at Ayr Sheriff Court today, the others are subject of reports to the Procurator Fiscal.

Chief Inspector Brian Anderson, Area Commander at South Ayrshire said: “The supply of controlled drugs in Ayr North and the associated crime that follows has been, and remains, a focus of our attention.

"This kind of action relies on the information that members of the local community provide and we will always act on information we receive. I would like to thank the public for their ongoing assistance and urge them to continue providing any information about drugs in the local community.

“Local officers will be back on patrol in Ayr North today and over the weekend. Last night’s operation was not a one off and people can expect to see a continued presence in the area.

"We are actively working with partners to ensure that the community of Ayr North is supported and that those who disrupt the community through drug dealing or anti-social behaviour understand the impact their behaviour has on the area.”

Anyone with information on those involved in drug dealing is urged to contact Police Scotland by calling 101, anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by speaking to local officers.