A GREATER MANCHESTER wide operation aimed at disrupting County Lines drug dealing uncovered more than £90k in cash and drugs with a street value of more than £160k.

With raids taking place across Wigan, Leigh, and the wider region from October 9 to 15, a total of 32 warrants took place with 39 people arrested.

The raids included the seizure of heroin, crack, cocaine, cannabis, pills, and ketamine.

Mobile phones, and multiple vehicles were also confiscated along with a taxi, an e-bike, a Rolex watch, and other high-value clothing were also recovered.

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Leigh Journal: 39 arrests were made in the week of action39 arrests were made in the week of action (Image: GMP)
With County Lines drug operations often involving serious violence, the seizures were reported as being "incredibly important" to demonstrate the police force's commitment to tackling serious violence and preventing harm to the community.

Included in the 39 arrests, William Bates, 24, from Tintern Avenue, Tyldesley, was charged with intent to supply Class A drugs. He has since been remanded in custody awaiting a further court appearance.

Officers also helped 17 adults and 42 children into safeguarding who were involved in being "cuckooed" at addresses where criminals store drugs or other items linked to criminality within their property.

There was also proactive patrols  in hotspot areas, knife arches were  in key locations, taxi licensing checks and street surgeries held with communities held.