Greater Manchester county lines crackdown makes 39 arrests

Police made 39 arrests and seized over £90,000 in cash and drugs with a street value of over £160,000 in a week-long crackdown on county lines drug dealing.

Greater Manchester Police recovered crack cocaine, cocaine, cannabis and ketamine during 32 raids.

They also seized weapons including guns, hunting knives, machetes, knuckle dusters, swords and axes.

The force said the raids demonstrate its "unwavering commitment to tackling serious violence".

They saw mobile phones and a raft of vehicles confiscated - including a taxi and an e-bike - and jewellery including a Rolex watch.

The force said part of the week of action was to identify children or vulnerable adults who have been exploited by criminals who force them into letting them store drugs or other items in their homes, or force them to deliver drugs.

In total 17 adults and 42 children were referred into safeguarding, police said.

Det Ch Insp Claire McGuire said: "It's important that we recognise and protect the innocent victims of exploitation that are forced into dealing drugs, hiding weapons and storing criminal property at their homes or committing crimes for others."

Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook, X and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to [email protected]