THREE people have been arrested after police seized drugs worth an estimated £400,000 during a raid at a house in Howwood.

Officers recovered an "extensive" number of tablets, believed to be a type of fake Valium called etizolam, and an operational pill press as they executed a search warrant at a property in Earlshill Drive.

The intelligence-led operation took place at around 3pm yesterday, with police confirming this afternoon that two men, aged 27 and 29, and a 27-year-old woman have been charged in connection with alleged drugs offences.

All three are expected to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday.

Detective Inspector John Stewart told The Gazette: “We have recovered more than £400,000 worth of drugs and have arrested three people.

“Police Scotland is committed to reducing the tragic impact of drugs on individuals, families and communities in Scotland and information from members of the public is absolutely vital in our efforts to do this.

"As a result of the support of the community, we have managed to take a significant haul of drugs off the streets.

“We recognise the value and importance of prevention and effective partnership engagement and work closely with partners, including the NHS, education, alcohol and drug partnerships and drug charities, to raise awareness about substance use and associated harms, which supports our prevention work in schools and communities."

Det Insp Stewart added that anyone who supplies drugs has "absolutely no place in our community."

He said: "Through partnership working and with the support of local communities, we will do everything we can to identify criminal activities.

“Anyone with information regarding drugs activity in their area is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where details can be given in confidence.”