DRUG-BUSTING OFFICERS COMMENDED FOR ARRESTS

ANTI-DRUGS officers who have helped radically cut the problem in East Surrey
have been commended.

The four officers received their commendations for their work as part of
Operation Grand in 2002.

The four-month intelligence-led operation - which culminated in dawn raids
on May 29 2002 - was led by Superintendent Kevin Deanus.

He has been awarded a Divisional Commendation along with Detective
Inspectors Mark Preston-Heard and Ian Chandler and DC Paul Langley.

A total of 26 warrants were executed in the raids involving 300 officers
including search team officers, drugs detection dogs, evidence gatherers and
firearms officers.

Numerous convictions resulted from the operation totalling more than 29
years imprisonment.

Mr Deanus, Mr Preston-Heard and DC Langley were presented with their award
by the divisional commander Chief Superintendent Rob Price at Caterham
Police Station on Thursday May 13.

Mr Chandler was unable to be at the ceremony.

Mr Price said: "Operation Grand was hugely successful and struck a major
blow against drugs in the division.

"At the time, it was the largest operation of its kind conducted by Surrey
Police and has now become a template for good practice for similar
investigations.

"A number of people were given considerable prison sentences and many of
them pleaded guilty because of the strength of the evidence against them.

"The quality of the investigation was commented on by solicitors, barristers
and a trial judge.

"All four officers showed high levels of professionalism and dedication.

"The operation had a lasting impact and sent out a strong message that we
will not tolerate drugs and the criminal activity associated with the supply
of drugs in East Surrey."