EIGHT people including a 14-year-old boy have been arrested after series of warrants took place in Warrington as part of an investigation into the large-scale importation of cannabis from Canada into Cheshire.
Operation Hectic, which took place last Thursday 31 August, is part of ongoing efforts to target criminals using the postal system to import illegal drugs. It is the culmination of an investigation involving the Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Border Force.
The day involved more than 80 officers from Cheshire Constabulary who executed a total of eight warrants at addresses across Warrington, following a morning briefing at Widnes Vikings Rugby League Stadium.
During the warrants, a quantity of class A and B drugs were seized.
Six people were arrested on suspicion of importing a class B drug with intent to evade a prohibition. These included:
• A 37-year-old man was arrested at an address on Teal Grove
• A 40-year-old man was arrested at an address on School Lane, Rixton
• A 32-year-old man was arrested at an address on Neville Avenue
• A 34-year-old woman was arrested at an address on Neville Ave
• A 32-year-old woman was arrested at an address on Alexandra Street
• A 38-year-old woman was arrested at an address on Poole Ave
A 40-year-old man was arrested at an address on Bewsey Road on suspicion of possession of class A and B drugs and conspiracy to supply controlled drugs.
A 14-year-old boy was also arrested as part of the warrants on suspicion of possession of class B drugs.
All of those arrested have been bailed pending further enquiries.
Superintendent Sarah Heath said: “We have already intercepted a large amount of drugs as part of this case, around three-quarters-of-a-million pounds, and this day of action marks our continued efforts to ensure those suspected to be involved in criminality in Cheshire are held accountable.
“This was a great example of police forces, even in different countries, working together and I hope this reassures communities that we determined to make Cheshire a no-go area for criminals.
“Our investigation has focused on those utilising the postal system to try and evade police and bring cannabis into Cheshire. But this investigation sends out a strong message; no matter what method you use to import illegal drugs, we will find you.”
