Police Smash County Lines Drug Gang Linked to Modern Slavery in Wigan
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have delivered a major blow to a county lines drug operation suspected of exploiting young people for modern slavery. In a carefully planned raid, officers from the Wigan Complex Safeguarding Team, backed by the Wigan Challenger team, local cops, and the Tactical Aid Unit (TAU), swooped on three properties in Aspull, Ince, and Wigan.
Three Arrested Over Cannabis Conspiracy and Modern Slavery
The arrests included an 18-year-old woman, a 17-year-old boy, and a 21-year-old man. They face charges of conspiracy to sell cannabis – a Class B drug – as well as modern slavery offences. The bust is part of GMP’s ongoing probe into drugs and county lines crimes, heavily boosted by crucial tips from the local community.
DI Patrick Wood: “Cracking Down on Child Criminal Exploitation”
“Today’s warrants are the culmination of a thorough investigation dedicated to tackling child criminal exploitation (CCE) in the Wigan area,” said Detective Inspector Patrick Wood, head of the Wigan Challenger Team. “These arrests will seriously disrupt a county lines network believed to be using young teenagers for drug running.”
Evidence Seized and Community Support Praised
During the raids, officers recovered mobile phones, debtors’ lists, and cannabis, shedding light on the gang’s operations. DI Wood thanked the local community for their vital help. “We couldn’t have cracked this without the information shared by residents,” he said.
Wigan Council and Police Join Forces to Root Out Crime
Next steps involve a joint effort by GMP and the Wigan Challenger Partnership Board to target the gang’s assets and activities. This includes scrutinising housing agreements, benefit claims, and proceeds of crime offences. Wigan Council is fully backing the crackdown.
Police Urge Public to Keep Reporting Crime
DI Wood urged locals to keep feeding information. “Even the smallest tip-offs can make a big difference in protecting vulnerable people across Greater Manchester,” he added. GMP remains steadfast in its mission to wipe out drug crime and exploitation on the streets of Wigan.
