POLICE have launched a drugs raid in a Southampton street this morning.

Operation Fortress has been in full force in the Polygon area of the city today.

Wardens are stomping through Newcombe Road in a bid to crack down on drugs in the area and questioning residents about an alleged supplier.

The Fortress campaign was launched to reduce the harm of drug-related violence across Hampshire and residents along the street have said they are relieved to see something being done about a supposed substance problem in their road.

Ollie Goldring, 26, a retail assistant manager lives a few doors down from the home where officers have been investigating.

He said: "I heard that they knocked the door down at a house near me at about 8am this morning.

"I'm not particularly surprised because I have smelt some drugs being used and heard people discussing deals outside before but they always kept to themselves and I didn't want to get involved.

"An officer came to my house earlier to ask some questions and find out what we knew, it's not nice to have it going on where you live.

Daily Echo:

"I'm glad to see they are here investigating and hopefully doing something about it."

Another resident who did not want to be named said: "They have been here for a while knocking on doors and putting leaflets through our letterboxes explaining what is going on.

"I'm glad to see they are taking the problem seriously because I have heard young people in the area talking about drugs problems and was worried for families that live down this road.

"It's horrible to know something so dodgy is going on near your home but seeing the officers here does make me feel safer and like the problem will now be under control."

Officers have been spotted carrying plastic containers full of bags into their van and put up signs outside of one property to say they were carrying out a drugs raid.

Student, Amy Thomas added: "I head that police had knocked down a door and were investigating.

"I wouldn't say we live in fear but it's not nice to be so close to something you know is wrong so seeing something being done is a big relief to a lot of people I think.

"Lots of students live around here but there are some families and elderly people and it's disrespectful to residents to try and do drugs and potentially damage your community."