Dawn raids see seven arrested as criminal use of encrypted communication services probe continues

Images courtesy of Greater Manchester Police

Dawn raids saw seven arrested as the investigation into criminal use of encrypted communication services continues.

Early yesterday (Thursday), officers from GMP’s Oldham district executed warrants at four properties across Oldham and Rochdale.

A warrant was also executed in Liverpool with the support of Merseyside Police. 

During the warrants, four men - aged 30, 31, 37 and 40 - and three women - aged 33, 38 and 42, were arrested on suspicion of offences including conspiracy to supply firearms, conspiracy to supply class A drugs, money laundering and participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.

They all remain in custody for questioning.

Amongst other property, eight vehicles and approximately £20,000 in cash was also seized during searches of these addresses.

This action forms part of GMP’s continued effort – codenamed Operation Foam – to intercept and dismantle the criminal use of encrypted communication services, often used by organised crime groups. 

Operation Foam forms part of the wider NCA led Operation Venetic, which has seen law enforcement agencies from across the country to break through the encrypted communication services being used by organised crime groups. 

Detective Sergeant Alex Brown, of GMP’s Oldham Challenger Team, said: “This action is another fantastic result as we continue to target those using encrypted communication services to conduct illicit activity.

"I hope this sends a clear warning to those using these encrypted systems for criminality – our investigation is continuing at speed and we will continue to identify, disrupt and dismantle this type of activity. 

“There is no place for organised crime within our communities and GMP is committed to ensuring those responsible face justice.

"As always, we would encourage anyone with any information or concerns in relation to this type of behaviour to make contact with police.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111. 

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.