A STRING of police raids resulted in one arrest as part of a drugs crackdown in the area.

The raids were a part of Operation Kirksville following an investigation into the supply of class B drugs, cannabis, to youngsters in Warrington.

It has been alleged that a group of men, aged between 17 and 22, have been targeting 'vulnerable' youths to buy cannabis.

A 17-year-old was found in possession of the drug during a police raid at his home in Latchford around midday and was arrested.

An air rifle was also recovered from the address.

Three houses were also targeted during the raid on Ash Lane in Appleton and one property on Dale Lane in Appleton.

Forty five police officers and two police dogs descended on the five addresses in the south of Warrington.

No other arrests were made but it is believed that stolen items have been found at the properties.

Sergeant  Rebecca Stokes said the raid was all about ‘impact with regards to drug related crime and supply in the area’.

Sergeant Stokes said: “We want to get the message out there that we are cracking down on drugs in Warrington and sending out a clear message that drugs will not be tolerated’.

“We want to offer reassurance to the public that we are committed to tackling the issue and we are urging the public to work with us on this.

“If they have any information about any crimes in Warrington then they must come forward so that we can stop this together.”

Speaking to residents on Ash Lane, many were not surprised by the events with some claiming they were ‘at a loss’ about what to do about the ongoing problems. 

One resident from Ash Lane said: “I feel intimidated by it all. I haven’t walked down the street on my own for years because you know you are going to be sworn at or called names.

“I have made complaints and I had glad to see that something is now being done.”

Another resident living on Ash Lane was not shocked by the police raids claiming it was ‘blatant that something was going on’.

The resident said: “It’s frustrating as it’s happening on our doorsteps and we all feel like we don’t know what to do about it.”

Anyone with information should call 0800 555 111.