Blackburn Drugs Swoop

Nine men have been arrested as part of a third series of drugs raids in Blackburn.

Over 100 officers from across the force raided addresses in Carr Street, Whalley Range, London Road, Belper Street, Whalley Range, Winston Road, Balaclava Street and Hall Street yesterday.

Nine men were arrested, all of whom will be questioned about suspected drug supply offences, police said.

The operation began at around 8am when officers, including operational support units and the dog section with drug detection dogs, swooped on the target addresses.

After the raids, large posters were placed on the windows of each address, explaining what had happened.

This follows a series of coordinated strikes in Blackburn last week where a total of 16 people were arrested and charged with drugs offences.

Operation Nimrod is a long-term approach that has been running since 2002.

Since its inception, over 4000 warrants have been carried out across Lancashire with over 180 in Blackburn and over £100,000 worth of drugs have been seized.

Over 150 people from Blackburn have faced trial resulting in over 417 years in prison.

Superintendent Terry Woods of Blackburn Police, said: "This should demonstrate our determination to track down people suspected of dealing drugs in our communities.

"This commitment will not end when the Nimrod raids end - we will continue to seek out those who blight the lives of residents by dealing drugs in this town."

(PR/NS)