Live updates as armed police launch armed dawn raids in Newport

Armed police have descended on Newport to carry out a planned drug operation which started around dawn. Gwent Police said there will be an increased police presence in the city on Wednesday (September 13) morning, as officers and specially trained firearm officers work across the area.

The force said it was conducting a number of warrants in the city in connection with an ongoing investigation into drug offences. Corporation Road was closed in both directions at around 6am from B4237 Wharf Road to Eton Road as officers carried out the raids. Some Newport Bus services were delayed as busses could not leave the depot on the road.

The road was reopened at 8.25am. A spokesperson for Gwent Police said: "We are conducting a number of warrants in the Newport area, in connection with an ongoing investigation into drug offences. Officers, alongside specially trained firearm officers as a precaution, will be working across the area."

Detective Inspector Ian Bartholomew said: "Residents will see an increased police presence in the area on the morning of Wednesday 13 September. We understand this may be concerning for the local community and we would like to offer our reassurance that this is a planned operation. If you have concerns, please stop and talk with us."