The crackdown on drugs and gun crime continues in Wirral after Merseyside Police conducted multiple arrests and drug seizures across the borough.
Eighteen people were arrested as part of the Operation Vermont scheme.
Those involved were arrested for a variety of offences as police continue their efforts to reassure the public they are tackling community issues and targeting criminals.
This action follows the series of serious incidents of organised crime in Wallasey, Beechwood and Woodchurch.
A total of 37 stop searches were conducted, along with other open land searches and the issuing of three warrants.
Three properties were searched, with the seizure of three vehicles and quantities of Class A and B drugs.
Superintendent Matthew Moscrop said: “We are continuing to take a firm approach to tackling criminality in Wirral. Our officers made a number of arrests last Wednesday as part of Operation Vermont, which has prevented drugs supply, violence, dangerous driving and taken weapons off the streets of Wirral.
“Serious and organised crime has no place in our communities and our officers will continue to disrupt these groups.”
We are out around the Wirral with Merseyside police today as part of Operation Vermont pic.twitter.com/49eLP757HI
— Radio City News (@RadioCityNews) February 8, 2023
Merseyside Police launch day of disruption against organised crime in #Wirral. Not directly in response to murder of Elle Edward’s, but tackling wider issues of criminality. @BBCNWT pic.twitter.com/PXcH5Mme2e
— Andy Gill (@MerseyHack) February 8, 2023
Police have charged Oxton man, Scott McLoughlin, 29, of Woodchurch Road with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and cannabis.
During the searches an 18-year-old, MerPol arrested a Birkenhead man on suspicion of possession of a controlled class-B drug.
The man was later released under investigation.
Officers also took part in Operation Rusty at Twelve Quays Ferry Terminal, where drivers from 66 vehicles arriving from Belfast were questioned.
Merseyside Police ask if you have any information about drug dealing in the community, where weapons are being stored or who is using them, call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
