Five people have been arrested in Bolton as part of an investigation into organised drug dealing. The arrests followed two dawn raids at addresses in Horwich, carried out by Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
The investigation began after a police chase on September 21 this year. Officers on patrol tried to stop a suspicious car on Webb Street in Horwich. The vehicle failed to stop and rammed the police car, injuring two officers, before speeding off. An hour later, it was discovered on fire on a side street between Siemens Street and Barlow Street.
Weeks of Investigation Lead to Warrants
Weeks of investigations followed and led to simultaneous warrants being executed at properties on Lostock Lane and Barlow Street. A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, conspiracy to commit arson, and conspiracy to supply class B drugs. A woman in her 50s was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson and conspiracy to supply class B drugs. Both have been taken into custody for questioning.
Following searches of both properties, GMP said officers recovered significant amounts of suspected cannabis and thousands of pounds in cash.
Three More Arrests and Drug Seizures
There were three other arrests. A boy was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson in Horwich, and a man in his 30s was arrested in Westhoughton on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson. A house search turned up a significant amount of suspected class A drugs, class B drugs, and cash, GMP said, with a woman in her 20s also held on suspicion of various drug-related offences.
Neighbourhood Inspector William Coleman said: "I am pleased today's proactive policing activity has been successful after weeks of investigative work carried out by the Neighbourhood team. Drugs in any community fuels violence and exploitation and often sit at the heart of wider organised criminal activity. We are committed to identifying, disrupting and dismantling those responsible."
Coleman added: "I want our communities to know that we are listening to their concerns and take all reports seriously. Please continue to submit information to us and we will act on it."
Anyone concerned about criminal activity in their area can report it directly on 101, or via the online report tool at www.gmp.police.uk. Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
