Latest phase of police drugs operation (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Runcorn drug addicts offered help and support

12:19pm Thursday 18th October 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan

A BID to smash an organised criminal gang which netted £2 million a year supplying cannabis across Runcorn has led to 31 people being charged.

Operation Gram involved 300 officers and was the biggest crackdown on cannabis ever mounted by Cheshire Police.

The latest phase of the operation saw police and partners join forces in Halton Brook to offer advice and help to people regarding drug misuse.

Residents were invited to attend Meadway community centre to talk to local officers and receive support from the appropriate agencies.

Some 27 men, two women and two juveniles have appeared at Halton Magistrates Court, following the dawn raid on September 5.

Warrants and searches have been carried out at 28 properties.

Inspector Gareth Lee, of Runcorn Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: "Our efforts are in a bid to address the root cause of drug misuse and to help those who may need advice and support in kicking their habit and changing their lifestyle.

"Officers are working alongside a number of other agencies to help those who may have been affected by Operation Gram and may need advice and support regarding drug misuse.

“We have received a lot of positive comments from members of the local community who are pleased to see the action that has been taken. We want to reassure residents that the efforts of neighbourhood officers will continue.

"Illegal drugs can have a major impact on the local community. It is an issue we take extremely seriously and we devote all the resources we can to tackling the issue.

"If you have any information regarding drug misuse in Runcorn then we would encourage people to pass this onto officers."

Anyone with any information can call 101.