Man arrested after early morning warrant in Southport

Police have made an arrest following a series of early morning warrants carried out in Southport this morning (Friday 12 June).

A 34-year-old man from Southport was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled Class A drug and possession of criminal property. During the search, officers seized suspected cocaine and more than £2,500 in cash. He has been taken to a police station for questioning.

At a separate address in Birkdale, officers seized a knuckleduster. A 39-year-old man was interviewed on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

The warrants build on recent disruption activity carried out by the County Lines Task Force and Southport Town Centre teams, who have continued their relentless efforts to tackle drug supply networks, combat County Lines activity, and protect vulnerable people from exploitation.

This sustained enforcement activity over the past few weeks has resulted in 19 arrests, including multiple suspects detained on suspicion of possession with intent to supply, possession of controlled drugs, and being concerned in the supply of Class A and B drugs.

Significant quantities of drugs have been taken off the streets, including suspected cocaine, ecstasy and psilocybin mushrooms, alongside more than 290 wraps of crack cocaine and heroin. Officers have also seized large amounts of suspected Class B drugs, including ketamine, more than 3kg of cannabis, 60kg of amphetamine and £11,000 in cash.

Sefton Area Commander Karl Baldwin said: “The activity this morning is part of a wider investigation into drug supply in the area.

“This latest arrest follows ongoing disruption work by dedicated teams committed to protecting communities and reducing the harm caused by drugs in Southport.

“Our message is clear – we will not tolerate this criminal activity. We will continue to pursue those responsible while safeguarding our communities.

“A mobile police station will be in Southport Town Centre today to provide reassurance and engagement. I would encourage anyone with concerns to speak directly with our neighbourhood officers or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Anyone with information on the suspected storage or supply or drugs should contact us via X or Facebook @MerPolCC. You can also report information via our website: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously