Police are continuing their committment to tackle serious drug crime on the streets of Lancashire.

Earlier on Wednesday morning, officers in Preston executed a number of warrants under their Operation Vanquish campaign.

Addresses were searched in Downing Street, Callon Street, Nevett Street, New Hall Lane and Acreage Close, in a series of co-ordinated drug raids.

The warrants follow previous raids in Blackpool, Lancaster and Morecambe on Monday, targeting those suspected of being involved in the supply of illegal drugs.

During the raids officers discovered:

  • A quantity of cocaine
  • A firearm
  • A large amount of cannabis
  • Over £1,100 in cash
  • Knives
  • A hammer

A 31-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A and class B drugs and possession of a firearm offence.

Both remain in police custody at this time.

A spokesperson for the police said: "Our message to criminals is clear; you are not welcome on our streets and we will find you, sooner rather than later.

"We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to keep our communities safe."

Meanwhile Chief Supt Karen Edwards, Divisional Commander for West Division issued an update on the operation over in the west of the county.

Over the last two days in Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre, Lancaster and Morecambe, police arrested 10 people as a result of 16 warrants and seized a large quantity of suspected cannabis, cash and suspected class A drugs.

She said: "This dedicated week of intense action follows a great deal of research, intelligence gathering and other policing tactics.

“I will take a robust approach to drug dealing and urge members of our community to continue to report drug dealing in your area. We are listening and we are taking action - as evidenced this week.

“My officers have delivered some great results to ensure that those individuals suspected of blighting our society, dealing in drugs and committing anti-social behaviour are arrested and brought before the courts.

“It is vital that my officers continue to engage and listen to our community.

"We do require information and evidence to enable us to carry out further similar operations. Please help us by reporting any signs that point to drug dealing or other illegal activity.

“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all those who have provided information and for your continued support for my officers and staff”.

Anyone with any information which may assist officers in their pledge to combat crime can speak to a local officer, report information online at https://orlo.uk/jfElo

Independent charity Crimestoppers can also reached free and in confidence on 0800 555 111 or online at https://orlo.uk/6tTvu