Dawn drug raid sees two arrested and drugs seized

At around 6.50am this morning (Friday 8 October) officers from GMP's Medlock Vale Neighbourhood Team executed a drugs warrant at an address in the Medlock Vale area of Oldham.

During a search of the address officers located substantial quantities of cannabis bush, in addition to drugs paraphernalia, packaging, mobile devices and a machete.

Two people - a 19-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy - were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cannabis. They are currently awaiting questioning in custody.

Today's action forms part of Operation Helix - a multi-agency proactive response aimed at tackling serious youth violence in Oldham.

To date 24 people have been arrested as part of the operation for offences such as violent disorder, serious assault, possession of offensive weapons, possession of firearms including ammunition and theft of motor vehicles.

Large quantities of class A drugs such as cocaine and heroin in addition to a number of weapons such as knives, machetes, axes, bats and firearms have also been seized.

Inspector Chris Julien from GMP's Oldham District said: "Today's result is another positive step forward in helping to identify and disrupt this type of activity across the Oldham district.

"The aim of Op Helix is to always educate young people and to prevent them and other members of our communities from suffering harm at the hands of violent crime. Enforcement action will always be a last resort; however it is often necessary to help dismantle the trade of drugs across the area.

"We would encourage anyone who witnesses an incident or needs to report a crime, to please contact us via LiveChat or our reporting facility at www.gmp.police.uk."

You can also contact us by dialling 101. Alternatively, you can make reports anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 in an emergency. If you see something, say something, and we can do something."