Targeted day of action against organised crime

Targeted day of action against organised crime

Merseyside Police carried out a day of action across Knowsley yesterday (Thursday 23 April), targeting serious and organised crime affecting communities throughout the borough.

The operation brought together neighbourhood and proactive officers alongside specialist resources, including Matrix, quad bike patrols, the mounted section, air support and officers from Project Medusa, the force's dedicated County Lines team.

More than 70 officers were deployed to conduct warrants, land searches and high-visibility patrols as part of a sustained and proactive effort to disrupt criminals involved in serious and organised crime.

Through targeted enforcement and a strong police presence, officers aimed to proactively disrupt criminal networks, protect vulnerable people and tackle issues impacting local neighbourhoods.

The day of action began with early morning warrants, targeting individuals suspected of involvement in organised crime, including drugs supply and County Lines activity.

The operation saw six warrants executed across Stockbridge Village and Prescot, with officers making six arrests for a range of offences, including on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs and possession of criminal property.

Throughout the day, officers maintained a strong and visible presence in Stockbridge Village and surrounding areas, carrying out open land searches and patrols.

The mounted team also visited pupils at Meadow Park School, giving children the opportunity to meet the officers and learn more about their role in the community.

The day of action follows the large-scale policing operation, codenamed Operation Vanguard in December 2025, which resulted in 49 arrests across Stockbridge Village and Huyton, demonstrating Merseyside Police's ongoing commitment to tackling serious and organised crime in Knowsley.

Chief Inspector Rob Budden from the Knowsley Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "Organised crime and drug supply cause real harm to our communities, and we will not tolerate this activity in Knowsley. Today's arrests and enforcement activity demonstrate our continued determination to identify, target and disrupt those involved.

"This operation shows that we are listening to our communities and taking robust action, while also providing support and safeguarding to those who are vulnerable. The information and intelligence we receive from local residents is vital, and it reflects the fact that Knowsley is a close-knit area with a strong sense of pride, where the vast majority of people are law-abiding and want to protect the place they live.

"Our work to tackle organised crime does not stop here. We urge anyone with information about drug dealing or criminal activity in their area to come forward - even small pieces of information can make a significant difference and help us keep Knowsley safe."

Anyone with information on crime in their area should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC. You can also report information via https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously