Police seized around £6,000 worth of suspected drugs in Manchester's student district after plain-clothed officers interrupted an apparent drug deal. The bust took place on Lower Ormond Street, near All Saints Park just off Oxford Road, as thousands of new and returning students arrive for the autumn term.
Officers spot suspicious pair
Officers from Greater Manchester Police's City of Manchester Robbery Tasking Team were on patrol when they noticed a man and woman acting suspiciously. Initially concerned that a robbery might be taking place, they approached the pair but quickly realised a suspected drug deal had been interrupted.
A detailed search of a nearby vehicle uncovered a significant quantity of suspected drugs, including cocaine, MDMA powder, ketamine and ecstasy tablets, along with cannabis resin and herbal cannabis. The haul is believed to have a combined street value of approximately £6,000.
Arrest and increased patrols
A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A and Class B drugs with intent to supply. The seizure comes as thousands of students arrive in Manchester for the new academic year.
Officers are carrying out increased patrols around university campuses, student residential areas and the night-time economy, alongside providing crime prevention and personal safety advice.
Police warning to suppliers
Inspector Leon McLaughlin, from GMP's City of Manchester Robbery Tasking team, said: "This is an excellent example of proactive policing. Our officers spotted something that didn’t look right, acted on their instincts and ultimately removed a significant quantity of suspected drugs from our streets."
He added: "Thousands of students are currently arriving in Manchester for the new academic year and we want them to be able to enjoy everything the city has to offer safely. Our officers will continue to patrol areas popular with students, including residential areas and the night-time economy, to tackle criminality and ensure people feel safe."
"Anyone looking to supply illegal drugs in our city should know that our officers are out there, both in uniform and plain clothes, and we will take action when we suspect criminal activity," he said.
