As part of a concerted effort to dismantle County Lines drug dealing operations, Merseyside Police have made a major breakthrough in Liverpool, seizing an estimated £10 million worth of cocaine. The significant haul, weighing approximately 100kg (220lb), was uncovered at an address in the Old Swan district during a targeted raid as part of Operation Medusa.
A 53-year-old woman from Liverpool has been arrested and is currently being questioned by detectives on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs. The discovery follows closely on the heels of another substantial seizure, where officers intercepted a van in Roby, Merseyside, recovering 38kg (83lb) of cocaine valued at approximately £2.6 million.
According to Detective Inspector Gary Stratton, these operations demonstrate the devastating impact that organised crime has on communities, often through intimidation, violence, and fear. The police are working tirelessly to remove illegal drugs from local areas and bring those responsible to justice.
Project Medusa is a dedicated operation aimed at disrupting County Lines gangs, which involve urban dealers expanding their illicit markets into smaller towns and rural areas using mobile phone lines for drug orders. By dismantling these networks, the police hope not only to reduce crime but also protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by these gangs.
The Merseyside Police force has stressed that those involved in organised crime are driven by self-interest and greed, with no consideration for the wider community's well-being. Through close collaboration with partners, Operation Medusa seeks to disrupt these networks and safeguard vulnerable members of society who may be caught up in their activities.