Ten people have this morning (Thursday 18 February) been arrested in Frodsham, Tarporley, Chester, Saltney and Whitchurch in relation to drug offences.

Detectives investigating the importation of illegal drugs arrested the eight men, aged 25 to 43, and two women, aged 25 and 61, following a series of dawn raids across the area.

They have all been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply and importation of Class B drugs (cannabis) and money laundering.

All ten are currently in custody being questioned by officers.

The arrests follow an investigation spanning almost a year by detectives from Chester CID into the alleged importation of Class B drugs (cannabis).

Detective Sergeant Stuart Needham, of Chester CID, who has lead the investigation, said: "The operation today is the result of a complex investigation into the importation of illegal drugs on what can only be described as an industrial scale.

"The investigation was launched in April 2020 when officers intercepted a number of packages, which were all bound for the same address in Helsby.

"We believe that these drugs are linked to an organised crime gang who have been importing from America for sale across the UK."

A large amount of cash was recovered by officers during the warrants.

Following the raids officers will be out and about on patrol providing reassurance to the local community.