Knives, guns, drugs seized

KNIVES, guns and almost a quarter of a million pounds worth of drugs have been seized from Oldham’s streets during a sweeping crackdown by police.

Startling figures show that 79 people were arrested, with officers seizing £223,725 worth of drugs and £2,755 in cash during a 12-week operation to come down hard on drug dealing and criminal activity in the borough.

Officers also discovered and destroyed four cannabis farms and issued 13 cannabis warnings during the mission from November 17 last year to January 31.

Taking place in the Oldham east and west areas, the successful clampdown saw 19 vehicles confiscated and weapons including air pistols, knives and even a samurai sword seized by officers.

The areas take in St Mary’s, St James’s and Waterhead in the east, and Alexandra and Werneth in the west.

Sgt Robert Howarth said: “The operation has been a success thanks to the help given to the police by residents and businesses that have raised concerns and shared information.

“The operation is just one of the ways that we have listened to residents to ensure our service is focused on the needs of local communities, addressing the issues that matter most to people.”

Police are now keen to continue their efforts and are urging anyone to report crime by calling the police on 0161-872-5050.