Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have dealt a significant blow to a county lines drug gang suspected of exploiting young people for modern slavery in Wigan.
In a carefully coordinated operation, officers from the Wigan Complex Safeguarding Team, supported by the Wigan Challenger team, local police, and the Tactical Aid Unit (TAU), conducted raids on three properties located in Aspull, Ince, and Wigan.
Three individuals were arrested during the operation: an 18-year-old woman, a 17-year-old boy, and a 21-year-old man. They are facing charges of conspiracy to supply cannabis, a Class B drug, as well as modern slavery offences.
This arrest forms part of GMP’s ongoing investigation into drugs and county lines activity, which has been significantly aided by important intelligence from the local community.
Detective Inspector Patrick Wood, head of the Wigan Challenger Team, stated, “Today’s warrants are the culmination of a thorough investigation dedicated to tackling child criminal exploitation (CCE) in the Wigan area. These arrests will seriously disrupt a county lines network believed to be using young teenagers for drug running.”
During the raids, officers seized mobile phones, debtors’ lists, and cannabis, providing valuable insight into the gang’s operations. DI Wood expressed gratitude towards the community, saying, “We couldn’t have cracked this without the information shared by residents.”
Moving forward, GMP and the Wigan Challenger Partnership Board will work together to target the gang’s assets and activities. This includes reviewing housing agreements, benefit claims, and pursuing proceeds of crime offences. Wigan Council is fully supporting this crackdown.
DI Wood also urged the public to continue reporting any suspicious activity, adding, “Even the smallest tip-offs can make a big difference in protecting vulnerable people across Greater Manchester.”
GMP remains committed to eliminating drug crime and exploitation from the streets of Wigan.
Originally published by UKNIP.
