Early morning police raids across Tameside and Rochdale today have seen a total of 11 people aged between 24 and 77 arrested on suspicion of drug related offences
The raids followed weeks of intelligence gathering and preparation and a firearms strike was also carried out at one of the addresses.
Eight men and three women were arrested on suspicion of a range of offences including conspiracy to supply class A and B drugs, being part of an organised crime group, possession with intent to supply, money laundering, and possession of an offensive weapon. They remain in custody for questioning.
During searches of the addresses, class A, B and C drugs including crack cocaine, heroin, cannabis and nitrous oxide were seized. Further recoveries of £70,000 in cash, a zombie knife, a BB gun and four vehicles were also made.
Chief Superintendent Shan Nasim, District Commander for Tameside, said: “Today’s operation has been a powerful example of our continued, determined effort to dismantle organised crime in our district and Greater Manchester.
“We have 11 people in custody being questioned by our investigation teams in relation to an organised crime group (OCG) that have been causing widespread harm across our communities.
“Today’s action caused significant disruption of an organised crime group (OCG) and has prevented drugs and weapons from reaching the streets, as well as the associated harms that come hand in hand with organised crime.
“Organised criminals exploit vulnerable people and blight our communities; we will take robust action to catch offenders, keep our communities safe, and protect vulnerable people across Greater Manchester.”
“We have 11 people in custody being questioned by our investigation teams in relation to an organised crime group (OCG) that have been causing widespread harm across our communities.”
