Police in Bury have arrested 14 people following drugs warrants across the town this morning.
Shortly after 6am today, Wednesday 6 February 2013, police raided 15 homes at addresses in Radcliffe, Whitefield, Bury east and Bolton.
Fourteen people were arrested on suspicion of drugs offences including conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. They have been taken into police custody for questioning.
Drugs and cash have also been seized.
Chief Superintendent Caroline Ball, divisional commander at Bury said:
"Drugs are a major factor in many other crimes such as burglary, robbery and vehicle crime and so cracking down on those involved is a big priority for us.
"Today's arrests are part of a continued fight against organised crime groups in the area and follow on from arrests and seizures made earlier this year relating to the sale and supply of drugs.
"Tackling organised crime in this way not only causes significant disruption to both users and suppliers of illegal drugs, it also means they will end up out of pocket as we can seize the assets through the Proceeds of Crime Act and put that cash back into the community."
Dozens of officers were involved in the raids, including specialist officers from GMP's tactical aid and dogs units, as well as divisional officers from Bury.
The raids were watched by several members of the community and councillors as well as the Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd, who were invited along so they could witness first-hand how police are putting a stop to drugs activity in their neighbourhood.
Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: "This operation is a welcome example of how the police are keeping up the pressure on organised crime, to make it impossible for criminals to operate and bring misery on our communities. Inviting local councillors and residents to witness today's activity first hand, highlights how vital it is for the police, partners and the community to stand together to drive crime out of our neighbourhoods."
Drugs workers are also available throughout the day to offer services to any prisoners that currently use drugs and who may want help to stop.
The warrants were carried out following months of intelligence gathering and follow on from numerous operations in Bury over the last 12 months which have resulted in 34 people arrested and charged with over 120 drugs offences. Twelve of those arrested received prison sentences amounting to
27 years, 11 are awaiting sentencing and 11 await trial. Police have seized
30 kilos of heroin, 30 kilos of amphetamine and ¾ of a kilo of cocaine, as well as £120,000 in this time.
Anyone with information about those involved in drug-related activity in their area should call police at Bury, in confidence if needed, on 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Those seeking help for drugs abuse can speak to the drugs treatment service on 0161 253 6488.
