Seven arrested in dawn raids in Macclesfield and Merseyside targeting county lines

Dawn raids in Cheshire and Merseyside has led to seven arrests as part of an operation targeting suspected county lines organised crime.

Earlier this morning (Thursday 25 November) officers from Macclesfield – supported by Merseyside Police – targeted five properties in Merseyside and two in Cheshire.

The men, aged between 22 and 54, are currently being questioned in custody on suspicion of conspiracy to supply crack cocaine and heroin.

The arrests are part of a nine-month investigation by detectives from Macclesfield Local Policing Unit into a county lines organised crime group (OCG) operating from Merseyside into the town.

Officers attended addresses on Berkshire Close in Macclesfield, Buxton Road in Macclesfield, Aquarius Close in Liverpool, Colworth Road in Liverpool, Prenton Dell Road in Prenton, Merseyside and two on Upper Parliament Street in Liverpool. 

County lines is the term used to describe how organised crime gangs export illegal drugs into areas across the UK and use mobile phones to facilitate the onward supply.

Criminals often exploit vulnerable adults and children to move and often store drugs and money on their behalf.

Detective Sergeant Angela Coppock, from Macclesfield Local Policing Unit, said: “This morning’s operation focused on individuals who are suspected of being part of serious and organised crime known to the public as county lines.

“The investigation centred on individuals believed to be facilitating and transporting class A drugs from Merseyside into Macclesfield.

“It’s well known that the county lines model can often involve children and vulnerable adults who are exploited by gangs to assist with their drugs supply.

“This type of exploitation leaves people in fear but it can also destroy lives and ruin communities.

“The action we have taken today is part of our dedication and commitment in protecting our community and ensuring Cheshire is and always will be a place of hostility towards people who cross into our borders to commit crime.”

To learn how to spot the signs of drug activity, including county lines exploitation, taking place in your area please visit our website 

You can report drug activity in your area online or anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.