An early morning raid results in a large haul of cash, drugs and weapons in Middleton and sees a man and woman arrested on drug offences

Rochdale's Complex Safeguarding Team gained entry to a property on Pershore Road in the town this morning, Wednesday 13 September 2023, to arrest the pair.

In the home of the 29-year-old man and 27-year-old woman, class A drugs - namely cocaine and heroin - worth over £1000 was seized, together with class B cannabis.

There was also a large amount of cash, approximately £8,000, numerous mobile phone handsets - believed to be used for the sole purpose of drug dealing - machetes and watches found.

Police also seized two vehicles and an off-road bike.

The warrants, which were executed under S8 PACE and S23 Misuse of Drugs Act, were executed following intelligence received in relation to the drug activity from the address, as well as concerns that young people were being exploited to sell controlled substances.

DS Bryant of Rochdale's Complex Safeguarding Team said: "The two arrested remain in police custody at this time for questioning.

"We have been able to execute these warrants purely based on the intelligence that we have received from members of the local community. As a Force, GMP is committed to investigating any intelligence that we receive and acting on it when appropriate, as we have this morning.

"If you, or anyone you know, is concerned about activities going on in their streets in Rochdale, or for the welfare of a young person who may be being exploited, please get in touch with GMP. You can contact us on 101 or via the Live Chat function on www.gmp.police.uk.

"Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers - on 0800 555 111."

Could you spot a child who is at risk of CCE or CSE?

Spot the signs of child exploitation: Going missing for periods of time or regularly returning home late; skipping school or being disruptive in class; appearing with unexplained gifts or possessions that can’t be accounted for; having mood swings and changes in temperament; using drugs and/or alcohol; increasing their screen time or showing unusual use of online platforms, such as websites, social media, apps or games; they may also show signs of unexplained physical harm, such as bruising and cigarette burns.