POLICE believe they have disrupted an organised crime group operating out of Hyde that imported significant quantities of cannabis into the UK through the postal system.
Seven people were arrested as three addresses across Tameside were raided in the early hours of Monday, September 22.
Mobile phones and other devices were seized, with enquiries ongoing, in the action that was part of Programme Challenger.
It is believed the gang was using ‘fast parcel’ services to bring drugs into the country.
Fast parcels refer to packages sent into the UK from abroad. They typically contain illegal drugs or weapons and can travel through express delivery companies.
The activity follows an investigation into local organised criminality, from importation, to organisation and distribution of illicit goods.
Programme Challenger is Greater Manchester’s partnership response to serious and organised crime.
Teams are embedded in every district, working to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, exploitation, firearms offences, and money laundering,
Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, who has responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: “Programme Challenger is partnership working at its best.
“When tackling complex and deep-rooted issues such as organised crime, it requires a city region-wide approach to bring those responsible to justice, support victims and rid communities of these selfish crimes for good.
“Challenger is continuing to deliver significant results in our ambitions to bring down organised crime groups and make Greater Manchester a safer place.”