Powder-filled holdalls weighing hundreds of pounds were found off tourist hotspots St Aldhelm’s Head and Durdle Door in Dorset. Beach litter pickers spotted more packs on the Isle of Wight at the weekend.
The narcotics, probably cocaine, are thought to have originated in South America, and detectives say that their capture is a “significant hit” for smuggling gangs.
They urged anyone finding packages to contact police. The National Crime Agency said the seizures, in Dorset and Hampshire, were being analysed to confirm the contents and the total weight.
Tracey Lake, senior investigating officer, said: “We believe this is a significant amount of Class A drugs. A loss of a consignment of this size would represent a significant hit to the criminal networks involved.”
Rachel Farrell, Dorset Assistant Chief Constable, said: “Officers from our marine team, supported by colleagues from across the force and HM Coastguard, have been working tirelessly with the NCA and Border Force to recover these suspect packages. Searches remain ongoing and I would ask anyone who finds a holdall or similar package in suspect circumstances to please not touch the item, but contact Dorset Police immediately.”
Stuart Murray, Assistant Chief Constable of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, said: “We have been supporting the ongoing investigation with searches across the West Wight, after a number of packages were discovered.
“This work is ongoing, and we would ask anyone who finds any suspicious bags or packages on the coastline of Hampshire and the island to get in touch with us immediately.”
