Merseyside Police have launched their fourth Operation Vanguard day of action, executing 23 warrants across the region this morning as part of a crackdown on organised crime.
The operation sees officers deployed to Liverpool, Wirral, Sefton, St Helens and Knowsley, targeting people suspected of involvement in criminality across the borough. A large convoy was seen leaving Merseyside Police headquarters as officers descended on the region.
Warrants and specialist operations
Further activity is expected throughout the day, including land searches, roadside operations by the Roads Policing Team, and safeguarding of vulnerable people being exploited by criminals. Patrols by the Mounted and Dogs teams are also planned, alongside Op Gears patrols targeting the illegal use of electric bikes, e-scooters, and off-road motorcycles.
The operation targets suspects wanted for numerous offences, including domestic abuse, serious violence, fraud, neighbourhood crime and drug-related offending. Officers from the area proactive team, Matrix team, regional organised crime unit and county lines specialists are involved.
Second successive regional deployment
This is the second successive Operation Vanguard deployment across all areas of the region, following three previous days, two of which focused on specific areas. In total, 220 Merseyside Police officers and staff are involved in the day of action.
Chief Constable Rob Carden said: "Operation Vanguard brings together a significant number of officers using a wide range of tactics to send a clear message to criminals: Merseyside Police will not tolerate criminality."
He added: "If you are involved in crime, you are not welcome in our communities. The scale of today's activity demonstrates our determination to tackle offending and protect people from the harm it causes."
Partnership working and public appeal
Carden said officers are identifying vulnerable people who may have been exploited by criminals and ensuring they receive support and access to partner agencies. The work will continue into the evening with support from colleagues across the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit, local authorities and other partner organisations.
A force spokesperson said: "If you have any information which could help us to prevent criminality in your area, let us know so that we can take action and ensure our communities can enjoy their local areas safely."
People can report information by calling 101, contacting @MerPolCC on social media, or via the Merseyside Police website. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website. In an emergency, always call 999.
