Officers across the county executed warrants and targeted individuals who are wanted, including some for involvement in serious criminality.
The activity was undertaken last week (w/c 17 April) and formed part of the ongoing Operation Merlin – which saw suspects sought for a range of activities including failure to appear at court and being suspected of involvement in drug dealing and other serious criminality.
A total of 20 arrests were made under the Op Merlin banner last week.
These included a warrant in Workington which resulted in a quantity of cocaine and cannabis, as well as thousands of pounds in cash, being recovered. Two were arrested and subsequently bailed.
Superintendent Sarah Jones said:
“Year round, our officers are arresting those involved in criminality in our communities. This further proactive and overt campaign sends out a clear message to those who think they are above the law that we are committed to tracking them down, head-on, and holding them accountable for their actions.
“Such activity is supported by the public who come forward to make us aware of criminality in their neighbourhood so that action can be taken to put a stop to it.
“This is not a one-off operation but a continuing programme of activity which will see more offenders and suspects brought to justice.
“Our message to offenders in the county is that we will be swift in going after those who harm our communities by committing crime.
On Thursday (20 April), officers arrested a man from Kendal who had been wanted on suspicion of fraud offences. He was subsequently bailed whilst police continue with their investigation.
Others arrested included individuals with outstanding warrants for failing to attend court, and others who were sought for prison recall.
Further Operation Merlin events are planned in the coming weeks and months.
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), Peter McCall said:
“Operation Merlin highlights the excellent work which is going on year round to take criminals off our streets.
“I was pleased to join officers executing a warrant at a suspect’s home during the week of action. I saw first-hand how officers deal robustly with those who think they are above the law; in the process they confiscated a large quantity of drugs.
“I hope Op Merlin reassures the public that the Police do and will continue to pursue those who break the law and think they can get away with it – they are wrong, and the police will persist and bring them to justice.
“We can all help to protect our communities, the police depend on information, and I would urge the public to continue to report any crimes or suspicious activities to the Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency, help us to deal with criminals and keep Cumbria safe.”
