Suspected organised crime group members arrested in dawn raids across Rochdale and Oldham

Greater Manchester Police arrested seven suspected organised crime group members during dawn raids across Oldham and Rochdale on Thursday (February 25).

Officers executed warrants across four properties throughout the morning, taking four men – aged 30, 31, 37 and 40 – and three women – aged 33, 38 and 42 into custody.

The individuals were arrested on suspicion of a variety of offences, including conspiracy to supply firearms; supplying class A drugs; money laundering; and participating in criminal activities.

Eight vehicles and around £20,000 in cash was also seized during searches.

The raids were conducted as part of Operation Foam – a GMP mission to intercept encrypted communication services used by organised crime groups. 

Detective Sergeant Alex Brown of GMP’s Oldham Challenger Team, said the raid was a “fantastic result.”

The DS added: “I hope this sends a clear warning to those using these encrypted systems for criminality – our investigation is continuing at speed and we will continue to identify, disrupt and dismantle this type of activity. 

“There is no place for organised crime within our communities and GMP is committed to ensuring those responsible face justice.

“As always, we would encourage anyone with any information or concerns in relation to this type of behaviour to make contact with police.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.