Drug dealers suspected of peddling Class A substances into Cheshire received a rude awakening this morning.
Cheshire Police carried out dawn raids at addresses across Merseyside on Tuesday (February 28).
Officers made 12 arrests at the culmination of an eight-month investigation against an organised crime ring which saw the county as an ‘easy target’.
Detective Inspector Giles Pierce said: “The strike phase this morning is the result of months of hard work and evidence and intelligence gathering by a dedicated team of officers.
“We have seen first-hand how illegal drugs can ruin lives and devastate communities.
“Residents should not have to live in fear or intimidation of this sort of illegal activity taking place in their neighbourhoods.
“We will not tolerate those who choose to come into Cheshire believing it is an easy target - be warned that no matter where you live it is only a matter of time before we catch up with you.”
Specialist officers raided nine addresses in Liverpool and one in St Helens in the early hours. A warrant was also carried out in Hampshire.
In total 10 men and two women were arrested on suspicion of Class A drugs offences. Three suspects were also produced from prison.
They are currently all in police custody helping officers with their enquiries. Detailed searches of the addresses are ongoing.
It was part of the Cheshire Constabulary’s Operation Impact against illegal drugs supply with support from Titan - the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit.
Assistant Chief Constable Darren Martland said the force is ‘proactively targeting those people that undermine our communities and bring misery to residents’.
He said: “There is no place in Cheshire for organised crime.
“We want to get the message across loud and clear that if you come into Cheshire to commit crime you will be targeted, located and positive action will be taken.
“We’re here for communities and today’s operation demonstrates our commitment to the people of Cheshire to make our communities safe.”
Anyone who has any information about organised crime or drug related activity in their community to come forward to Cheshire Police on 101.
Details can be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
