More than 50 nitrous oxide canisters found in car boot

Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton district posted an image of the canisters on social media this afternoon (February 15).

The force said that two officers, PC Shezad and PC Owen, had been on patrol in Great Lever when they identified a ‘vehicle of interest’ parked on Norris Street, just off Derby Street.

It said that a man standing near the car ‘quickly caught the officers’ attention’ and as soon as they approached, the man ran away.

The officer chased him and caught him not far from the vehicle he had run from.

After a search of the car, police found 58 nitrous oxide canisters, along with balloons and dispensing nozzles in the boot.

The drugs and items were seized, along with the vehicle being used to transport them.

The man was arrested for possession with intent to supply class C drugs.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “Let this be clear – drug supply in Great Lever will be targeted, disrupted, and dealt with.

“If you are bringing drugs into our community, expect to be stopped, searched, arrested, and prosecuted.

“We will continue to act proactively, and we will not relent.”

The force has urged anyone with information about drug activity in their area to report it via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Possession of nitrous oxide for recreational use became illegal in November 2023, when it was classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.