Eight held in drug raids

EIGHT people have been arrested as part of an operation to target the supply of illegal drugs in Tameside.

Arrests were made in Werneth, Hyde and Ashton early today as a result of an intelligence-led project, codenamed Operation Donnington, aimed at people who distribute drugs.

Just after 6am, about 70 officers executed the warrants at the various addresses. One woman and seven men have been arrested on suspicion of drugs offences, including supplying class-A drugs and conspiracy to supply class-A drugs.

Supt John Berry, of Ashton police, said: “Today’s action is a direct result of residents telling us about a problem in their community and our officers acting on that information, with the aim of removing the blight of drugs from their streets.

“We always thoroughly investigate such reports, gather evidence and take positive action and I hope that today will encourage other people to contact us with information directly or via Crimestoppers.”

Anyone who is concerned about drug dealing in their area should ring Greater Manchester Police on 0161-872 5050 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.