Team of officers who took down an OCG have won an award

The team behind Operation Drever took home the Investigation of the Year Award at this year’s Chief Constable’s Annual Awards.

Operation Drever was a proactive investigation into a Salford-based OCG involved in the supply of controlled drugs and the criminal possession and use of firearms.

The investigation focused on the OCG's leader Nathan Vanden, a known criminal who fled the country in 2019 after being wanted for a violent assault.

Despite being based in the Netherlands, Vanden coordinated violent crimes in the area using encrypted mobile phones, directing associates to carry out shootings at houses and businesses to intimidate rival criminals. Vanden was later sentenced to 26 years imprisonment.

Of particular significance to the investigation team was the sale of a firearm for £6,000 to an associate in Salford, who intended to retaliate against a rival; however, the team successfully intercepted the firearm before it could be used.

Over the course of the investigation, two firearms and 1.5 kilos of cocaine were recovered.

The investigation team worked with the Technical Surveillance Unit, North West Regional Organised Crime Unit Network, The National Crime Agency, Dutch Law Enforcement and Crown Prosecution Service to capture evidence via various means and build a complex conspiratorial case against all offenders involved.

Six members of the OCG were convicted of conspiracy to possess firearms with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm and possession with intent to supply cocaine. They were sentenced to a combined total of 58 years in prison.

Tackling the supply of drugs and subsequent drug-related crime is incredibly important to us, and on Wednesday 9 October 2024, we announced the city-region's first published multi-agency drugs strategy to help us do that.

This is just one example of the proactive work our officers and staff do every day as we look to remove drugs from the streets, protect vulnerable people and make a positive impact on our communities.

Detective Chief Superintendent Jon Chadwick, of our Serious Crime Division, who put the team forward for the award, said: “This investigation showcased exemplary teamwork and exceptional investigative prowess. The team, led by Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop, demonstrated clear strategic direction and risk mitigation.

“Detective Inspector Richard Castley ensured seamless collaboration with national and international agencies, while Detective Constable Matthew Donnelly’s meticulous case management secured critical guilty verdicts.

“Detective Constable Damian Reed’s expertise in telecoms investigation was pivotal in attributing communication devices to criminal activities, and Detective Constable Kat Desortis’ innovative handling of forensic evidence provided vital support. Additionally, Cain Ashton’s analytical skills were instrumental in deciphering vast amounts of information, further aiding the investigation.

“Their tireless efforts led to the recovery of firearms and significant quantities of drugs, and the successful extradition and prosecution of Nathan Vanden, the OCG's principal member. This operation's success not only enhanced the safety of Greater Manchester but also underscored GMP's commitment to combating organised crime on a global scale.

“The arrest and conviction of this OCG without doubt makes Greater Manchester a safer place and sends a clear message out that we will pursue those having a negative impact upon the communities of Greater Manchester beyond our borders and across the world.

“The investigation team worked tirelessly with the several important partners to share information, mitigate risk and eventually locate, arrest and arrange the extradition of Vanden back to the UK for prosecution. Well done to all members of the team for their partnership working on an international scale.”