Eight people arrested following drugs warrants in Bury today (From Bury Times)

Eight people arrested following drugs warrants in Bury today

12:19pm Wednesday 27th February 2013 in News

Police in Bury have arrested eight people following drugs warrants across the town this morning.

Shortly after 6am today, police raided seven homes at addresses in Radcliffe, Bury and Ramsbottom. They have been taken into police custody for questioning.

It follows arrests made earlier this month in an ongoing fight against organised crime and the supply of Class A drugs in Bury.

Chief Superintendent Caroline Ball, divisional commander at Bury said: “We continue to target those concerned in the sale and supply of Class A drugs across Bury. I hope these arrests, and those over the last year, show the community we are committed in our fight against organised crime.

“Drugs can have a huge effect on the community whether that’s through burglary, robbery or vehicle crime, so cracking down on them is a priority.

“By taking these dealers off the streets we can disrupt the sale of illegal drugs as well as seizing their assets which is then put back into the community through the Proceeds of Crime Act.”

Dozens of officers were involved in the raids, including specialist officers from GMP’s tactical aid and dogs units, as well as divisional officers.

The raids were watched by several members of the community and councillors as well as Bury Mayor, Joan Grimshaw, who were invited along so they could witness first-hand how police are putting a stop to illegal drugs activity in their neighbourhood.

Drugs workers are available throughout the day to offer services to any prisoners that currently use drugs and who may want help to stop. Those seeking help for drugs abuse can speak to the drugs treatment service on 0161 253 6488.

The warrants were carried out following months of intelligence gathering and follow on from numerous operations in Bury over the last 12 months which have resulted in over 60 people arrested and charged with over 160 drugs offences. Thirteen of those arrested received prison sentences amounting to 30 years, nine are awaiting sentencing and 29 await trial. Police have seized 30 kilos of heroin, 30 kilos of amphetamine and ¾ of a kilo of cocaine, as well as £120,000 in this time.

Anyone with information about those involved in drug-related activity in their area should call police at Bury, in confidence if needed, on 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.