In recent weeks, local law enforcement agencies, in combination with state agencies, have led warrant sweeps through Vicksburg and portions of Warren County.

Each time, multiple people have been arrested and now face charges stemming from probation violations, possession of drugs and other violations.

One sweep — this one by the Vicksburg Police Department, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and Warren County Drug Court — saw five individuals arrested.

Some faced charges for possession of ecstasy, others for possession of cocaine.

Another law enforcement sweep, this one taking place last week, saw officials with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office join with those from the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshal’s Office Fugitive Task Force, Mississippi Department of Corrections and the Vicksburg Police Department’s K-9 units to arrest seven more individuals.

Probation violations and possession of controlled substances were the charges placed on those arrested.

In each case, law enforcement agencies came together to make these sweeps successful and to arrest individuals allegedly taking part in illegal activity.

It was the teamwork and preparation that we today congratulate, applaud and further encourage.

Drugs are a problem that sadly faces every community and cities of all sizes. Drug activity — to one level or another — has permeated our neighborhoods to the point that only through collaborative efforts of different agencies can the continued spread of drugs be stopped.

Tough laws are just one part of the war against drugs, but giving our law enforcement agencies the resources and investment in people they need to do the job is crucial.

There are those who would argue the results of the so-called war on drugs that has gone on for decades.

But there is no one who can argue the results of what happens when our law enforcement agencies come together and work together.

That is a starting line-up that is hard to beat.