Money laundering, drug dealing network dismantled in £2 million drugs bust

In the early hours of this morning (Tuesday 8 August), eleven members of a suspected Cheetham Hill based gang were escorted to custody by Operation Vulcan as part of an ongoing investigation which has already seen an estimated £2 million worth of prescription drugs and £100k cash seized.

Ten raids took place across Cheetham Hill, Bolton, Cheshire, and as far as Slough, Berkshire, with eleven people (six men and five women) arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply class A, B and C drugs and money laundering.

Searches of the properties resulted in thousands of pounds worth of cash being seized and large quantities of drugs including illicit prescription medication.

It’s believed that the drugs recovered as part of this operation, rank amongst the biggest ever single seizures of prescription medications within the United Kingdom.

Detective Inspector Chris Julien, one of Operation Vulcan’s specialist officers said: “We’re acutely aware of the significant impact the supply of drugs is having on our communities, and the gang violence and exploitation that comes hand in hand with it, which is particularly prevalent in Cheetham Hill.

“We suspect that the individuals arrested today have links to a major drugs operation in Cheetham Hill. The quantities of drugs we are talking about are beyond substantial and the removal will see a discernible difference on the streets of Greater Manchester.

“We will not hesitate in taking action on those involved and today is a strong example of this whereby we’ve wiped out a clearly sophisticated set up and hopefully saved lives as a result. Today’s warrants are another huge step in Operation Vulcan’s crackdown, and it doesn’t stop here.

“Nobody knows their local communities better than the people who live here. If you suspect someone is illegally supplying prescription or counterfeit prescription drugs or illicit substances, please report it online or via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk.”

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.