Police say since March this year 15 people were arrested, 22 premises visited and nearly 300,000 illegal cigarettes seized across several days of action during their operation in Halliwell.
They say the crackdown, dubbed Operation Chenille, was launched in response to drug use and anti-social behaviour afflicting people in the area.
Inspector Lisa Clarke, of Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton Neighbourhood Team, said: “This operation will see plenty of work in the Halliwell area, providing local residents with an influx of targeted policing which is already delivering positive results.
“Through a combination of proactive patrols and dedicated days working with partners such as Trading Standards, we have been able to secure 15 arrests, seize tens of thousands of pounds worth of illicit goods, and crackdown on traffic offences.
Thousands of illegal cigarettes and vapes were seized (Image: GMP) “Much of our work is aided directly by members of the community who are fed up with their lives being blighted by people who just don’t care about others.
“If you have any issues within your area, I would urge you to get in touch with us with any reports. You can do this by talking to us directly, or by contacting the charity Crimestoppers anonymously.”
Insp Clarke and her colleagues worked with partners like Trading Standards on the operation.
They say this has included tactics like traffic operations, knife sweeps, increased patrols, joint raids with Trading Standards, and drug warrants.
Police traffic work has seen dozens of cars stopped, 17 drivers prosecuted for various alleged offences, and another five vehicles seized for being uninsured.
Raids involving Trading Standards have seen 22 premises visited, with 280,000 illicit cigarettes and 500 illegal vapes seized worth a total of £10,000s since the operation was launched.
ALSO READ: Police and trading standards hit big ‘illegal cigarettes and vapes’ haul
ALSO READ: Officers seize goods – from earphones to illegal tobacco – from local shops
ALSO READ: Fake panelling and padlocked fridges used to conceal illicit tobacco and vapes
The 15 people arrested were stopped on suspicion of offences ranging from drugs possession and theft to others, with another 16 people stop-searched during the operation.
Police officers say they intend top continue the enforcement work over the coming months with more days of action planned.
Anyone with any further information or concerns can call police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Members of public can also call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
