16 June 2009

Wigan Drug Dealers Arrested In Scorpion 'Sting'

Ten people have been arrested and seized drugs with an estimated street value of £800 in raids on properties last week in the Wigan borough.

The raids were organised through Greater Manchester Police's Scorpion priority group that aims to further explore the impact of drugs, bring dealers to justice, increase public confidence in the police and make communities feel safer.

Of the 10 people arrested, five were charged with offences including possession of heroin and possession of cannabis, and officers seized heroin worth £660 and amphetamine worth £140.

They also seized £900 in cash from suspected dealers under the Proceeds of Crime Act because they believe the money may have been made from, or could be used to fund, criminal activity.

Tactics employed under the Scorpion initiative included raids on drug dens, targeting of known and suspected offenders, the use of specialist drugs dogs and officers using drugs torches outside licensed premises to check people for traces of cocaine.

Chief Inspector Andy Baddeley of Greater Manchester Police's Wigan Division said: "This week of action shows the breadth of our approach to dealing with the scourge

of drug crime.

"Much of the success of this week was down to the information that residents provided on drug issues in their communities, and I would urge people to continue to call us directly on 0161 872 5050 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"The week of action reiterates our commitment to ridding communities of drug crime and making them safe for people to go about their law-abiding business."

(JM/BMcC)