Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

42 Mini-Market Drug Shops Closed, PM Calls for Tougher Powers

4/24/2026

39 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

BBC undercover investigation documented cocaine, cannabis, laughing gas and prescription pills being sold openly in West Midlands mini-markets.
West Midlands Police arrested a man and a woman in Dudley on suspicion of supplying drugs through shops.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer pledged stronger powers and additional officers to tackle the crime.
Operation Clearance, launched in August 2024, has closed 42 shops linked to illegal drug sales.

1 of 1

Story summary

BBC undercover investigation documented cocaine, cannabis, laughing gas and prescription pills being sold openly in West Midlands mini-markets.
West Midlands Police arrested a man and a woman in Dudley on suspicion of supplying drugs through shops.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer pledged stronger powers and additional officers to tackle the crime.
Operation Clearance, launched in August 2024, has closed 42 shops linked to illegal drug sales.