Merseyside Police have arrested 26 people and seized suspected Class A drugs, cash and stolen property during early morning raids across Merseyside as part of Operation Vanguard, the force's fourth such operation targeting individuals suspected of causing harm to communities through criminal activity.
On Thursday, November 12, officers carried out 23 searches at addresses across Merseyside. Ten people were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, five were arrested for possession of controlled drugs, and one person was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.
Seized items and roadside arrests
Police also seized a suspected stolen e-bike, half a kilo of cocaine, £24,000 in cash and two Rolex watches. As part of the force's roadside operation, two further people were arrested: one on suspicion of drink driving and one on suspicion of drug driving.
Enforcement notices were issued for MOT, seatbelt, tyre, and illegal tint offences. Officers also arrested a further eight named offenders, including five in Liverpool and three in Sefton.
Ongoing enforcement and patrols
Silver commander for the operation, Geoff Stewart, said: "Our work remains ongoing to target criminals across the whole of Merseyside by deploying a number of different tactics."
He added: "We know the impact that criminal activity can have and I want the public to feel reassured by this show of force and our commitment to removing these criminals from our streets."
Further action will continue throughout the day, including land searches, roadside operations by the Roads Policing Team, safeguarding of vulnerable people, and patrols by officers from mounted and dogs teams. Dedicated Op Gears patrols are also underway, cracking down on the unlawful operation of e-bikes, e-scooters, and scramblers.
Officers are also focusing efforts on locating wanted individuals linked to domestic abuse, serious violent crime, fraud, burglary, and narcotics supply. The public can report information by calling 101, contacting police on social media @MerPolCC, or via the Merseyside Police website. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
