Five arrested after dawn raids including Lytham St Annes warrant in major drugs probe
Five men have been arrested after police carried out a series of early morning raids – including at an address in Lytham St Annes – as part of a major drugs investigation.
Officers executed four warrants across Bolton and one in Lytham St Annes today in connection with the suspected importation of drugs into the UK.
Greater Manchester Police said the action follows further enquiries into the activities of a suspected organised crime group.
Five men, aged between 23 and 29, have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply drugs and conspiracy to import drugs. They remain in custody for questioning.
During the searches, officers recovered £10,000 in cash and seized three vehicles.
The warrants form part of a wider investigation which has already seen significant seizures.
On January 9, officers recovered two tonnes of cannabis in Blackrod, Bolton, with an estimated street value of £24 million.
Later, on January 22, detectives from GMP’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit executed a warrant in Haslingden, Lancashire, where 435kg of cannabis was discovered concealed within a shipment of oranges.
Detective Inspector Paul Crompton, of GMP’s Serious Crime Division, said: “Today’s results are another success and demonstrates our commitment to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks as we work to keep our communities safe from harm.
“It sends a clear message that this kind of criminal activity will not be tolerated, and our officers will continue in their efforts to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
Police have urged anyone with information about suspected drug activity to contact them on 101 or via the LiveChat function on the GMP website.
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.