Drugs and a gun seized in early morning police raids in Tameside

Two simultaneous warrants were conducted in Tameside this morning as part of a police crackdown on crooks in the borough.

The early morning wake-up calls came at two addresses, both in Apsley Place, Ashton, in connection with tip-offs regarding drug supply.

In one address, a quantity of cannabis was found, resulting in one man, aged 19, being arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs. 

In the second address, a suspected starter pistol was found - painted black and with tape around the handle.

While the firearm wasn't viable, weapons painted black to appear more realistic may be used for inappropriate or illegal means, and it was subseqeuently seized.

PC Daniel Wilson, from GMP's Tameside district, said: "We are committed to cracking down on drug offences in Tameside and I am happy that we have managed to take these potentially harmful products out of circulation. In addition, to get a weapon that could have been used to threaten or intimidate others off the streets is a great achievement.

"Work is currently ongoing and I am happy with this morning's results. It sends a clear message that if you are suspected of being involved in criminality, we will investigate, and you can expect a visit from us.

"Much of our work is aided by those in the local community - if you have any information that you would like to share with us, please contact us on 101, or by visiting gmp.police.uk. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."