POLICE officers say a continuing operation targeting drug-related crime in Ellesmere Port and Neston is achieving ‘excellent results’.
During the past eight weeks officers have executed more than 30 search warrants as part of Operation Castor.
The raids resulted in significant quantities of drugs and cash being recovered and 18 people were detained.
Six of those arrested have been charged with offences in relation to possession of cocaine and cannabis and are waiting to appear in court.
Five others were released on bail and enquiries are ongoing.
The remainder received police cautions and warnings following the recovery of smaller amounts of controlled drugs during the raids.
A 23-year-old man from Ellesmere Port was recently jailed for 16 months at Chester Crown Court after pleading guilty to possession of cannabis with intent to supply and possession of a prohibited weapon.
Officers from Ellesmere Port Neighbourhood Policing Team executed a warrant at his home in April as part of the continuing crackdown on drug dealing in the town.
A significant quantity of cannabis with a street value of £2,600 was recovered along with prohibited weapons.
The court also issued a confiscation order under the Proceeds of Crime Act which means up to £10,000 can be recovered from any assets the man might have in the future.
Insp Peter Case, of Ellesmere Port and Neston Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Drugs misuse and supply is an issue that we take extremely seriously and we hope that our actions are helping to reassure local people that we are committed to targeting the issue.
“I would say to people in the town don’t put up with drug dealers living in your street because you don’t have to.
“Any information you have in relation to drugs and crime in the town should be passed to the police and we will do something about it.”
To report drug misuse, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
