Twelve people were arrested (of which six that were charged, see end of article) during police raids at properties across Wigan borough between 13 and 19 September 2010.
The properties were raided thanks to intelligence gathered from the community as part of the Crimestoppers ‘Rat on a Rat’ campaign.
In addition to the arrests, police executed 14 search warrants and shut down a £500,000 cannabis farm in Orrell.
Officers also seized £6,500 in cash, cocaine worth £8,000, four firearms and a large amount of white powder thought to be mephedrone.
An illegal immigrant was also deported as a result of the operation.
Chief Inspector Clara Williams of Greater Manchester Police’s Wigan Division said: “These raids were another step towards cracking down on those who choose to engage in drug-related crime and break the law. We are determined to work tirelessly to improve community safety and would urge the public to get in touch to report any drugs-related intelligence they may have.”
The recent crackdown on drug-related crime was organised as part of the multi-agency campaign ‘Tackling Drugs – Changing Lives’, which involves the police, council, NHS and other agencies working together to stem the damage caused by drugs to local communities.
Kevin Anderson, Wigan Council’s cabinet champion for neighbourhoods, said: "For the third year running, the Rat on a Rat campaign has again generated support from members of the local community who are committed to helping us put drug dealers behind bars.
"Drug dealing at street level causes untold misery and affects the entire community, not least because of the strong link between the misuse of drugs and acquisitive crime.
"I urge people to continue supporting this campaign, and to carry on providing invaluable intelligence which helps us make our streets safer for everybody."
Anyone with information about drug dealing should call police on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Crimestoppers is an independent charity that will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.
Of those arrested, six were charged and six were bailed pending further enquiries. The details of those charged are as follows:
James Fagan (born 13.03.91) of Ruabon Crescent, Hindley charged with possession of cocaine with intent to supply. Currently remanded in prison and due before Wigan Magistrates' Court on 13 October 2010.
David Monks (born 22.04.70) of Vincent Way, Marsh Green charged with possession of amphetamine and is due before Wigan Magistrates' Court on 28 September 2010.
Mark Brookes (born 12.02.67) of Sydney Street, Platt Bridge charged with possession of amphetamine and is due before Wigan Magistrates' Court on 21 September 2010.
Alec Shirley (born 15.06.85) of Millers Lane, Platt Bridge charged with cultivation of cannabis and is due before Wigan Magistrates' Court on 5 October 2010.
Christina Shone (born 06.06.75) of Keats Close, Atherton charged with possession of amphetamine and is due before Wigan Magistrates' Court on 28 September 2010.
Alison Tickle (born 15.05.71) of Bird Street, Higher Ince charged with taking a vehicle without consent and is due before Wigan Magistrates' Court on 28 September 2010.
Comments