DETECTIVES investigating the importation of illegal drugs on an "industrial scale" have arrested 10 people following dawn raids at properties in Chester, Frodsham, Tarporley, Saltney and Whitchurch.

Eight men, aged 25 to 43, and two women, aged 25 and 61, were all arrested this morning (February 18) after warrants were executed at 10 addresses.

They have all been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply and importation of Class B drugs (cannabis) and money laundering.

All ten are currently in custody being questioned by officers.

The following have been arrested:

  • A 25-year-old man from Saltney
  • A 25-year-old woman from Whitchurch
  • A 61-year-old woman from Chester
  • A 37-year-old man from Saltney
  • A 25-year-old man from Hollywell
  • A 36-year-old man from Whitchurch
  • A 27-year-old man from Helsby
  • A 43-year-old man from Helsby
  • A 28-year-old man from Helsby
  • A 25-year-old man of NFA

A large amount of cash was recovered by officers during the warrants.

The arrests follow an investigation spanning almost a year by detectives from Chester CID.

Detective Sergeant Stuart Needham, of Chester CID, who has lead the investigation, said: “The operation today is the result of a complex investigation into the importation of illegal drugs on what can only be described as an industrial scale.

“The investigation was launched in April 2020 when officers intercepted a number of packages, which were all bound for the same address in Helsby.

“We believe that these drugs are linked to an organised crime gang who have been importing from America for sale across the UK.”

Following the raids officers will be out and about on patrol providing reassurance to the local community.

Chief Inspector Gareth Wrigley from Chester Local Policing Unit said: “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the team here at Chester we have been able to disrupt the supply of illegal drugs. However, this is not an issue we can tackle alone.

“Information from the public is vital and I would urge anyone with any concerns in relation to illegal drug use in their community to get in touch on 101 or visit cheshire.police.uk/ro/report.”

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane added: “Preventing and protecting Cheshire’s communities from serious and organised crime has been a key focus of my Police and Crime Plan and I would like to thank all of the officers and staff involved in this operation.

“The corrosive effect that illegal drugs have on our communities is well known and I have no doubt that today’s warrants will go some way to help make Cheshire a safer place for everyone.”

  • Information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.