An expected day-long drug sting operation starting early Monday is resulting in warrants executed against 29 suspected drug dealers and users and as many as three others arrested in the process.

Tamaqua Police Chief Rick Weaver said the drug problem is epidemic but police will continue do their part.

"It's our job to arrest them and then it's up to the courts," said Weaver, standing in a cold, mid-morning drizzle as up to 40 local, county and state officers, drug agents and task force members coordinate a multi-front assault on suspected drug turf throughout the area.

"It's frustrating. We've had 12 overdoses in the past month and four this past weekend," Weaver said.

According to Weaver, methamphetamine and heroin are among the more prevalent substances in our area, including crystal meth from Mexico. Much of the illegal drugs find their way to Tamaqua and eastern Schuylkill County after being channeled through the cities of Allentown and Hazleton.

More details as they become available and a complete report in Tuesday's Times News.