Home / Crime and Justice / Monkey Dust Seized: Staffordshire Police Make 30+ Arrests
Monkey Dust Seized: Staffordshire Police Make 30+ Arrests
26 Aug
Summary
- Over 30 arrests made in Staffordshire during a six-month operation.
- Approximately 25kg of suspected monkey dust was confiscated.
- Operation Rivent also led to the protection of 17 women and children.

Staffordshire Police have concluded a successful six-month operation, dubbed Operation Rivent, which targeted the supply and use of monkey dust. This focused police work resulted in more than 30 arrests across the county, with a significant quantity of the synthetic Class B drug seized.
Authorities confiscated approximately 25kg (55lb) of suspected monkey dust, alongside various vehicles, weapons, and cash. The operation was initiated in response to 138 reports concerning monkey dust in Staffordshire, with a notable number of arrests occurring in Stoke-on-Trent and Stafford.
Superintendent Phil Bryan highlighted the positive outcomes, including arrests, seizures, and enhanced intelligence gathering. He affirmed the force's commitment to continuing these efforts throughout 2026, aiming to disrupt supply networks and safeguard vulnerable individuals.
Furthermore, Operation Rivent achieved significant safeguarding successes, leading to the protection of around 17 women and a number of children. This initiative follows previous concerns raised in 2025 regarding monkey dust use in Stoke-on-Trent.