Wanted men and women were arrested and drugs warrants executed by officers across the county as part of the latest Operation Merlin week of action (29 Jan – 2 Feb).

The week of action saw 11 arrests made, including for burglary, supply of Class A drugs and grievous bodily harm with intent.

On Monday officers carried out drugs warrants at addresses in Carlisle which resulted in two arrests. David Archibald, 43, of Whinsmoor Drive, Carlisle, was charged with possession of a Class A drug (cocaine) after a warrant was executed at his home address. A second man was also arrested for breaching bail.

On Tuesday officers arrested a 50-year-old man from Carlisle who was wanted on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent. He was subsequently bailed whilst officers continue with their enquiries. A Second man was arrested for recall to prison.

On Thursday officers were in the Furness area where they carried out a series of warrants.  A 32-year-old man from Barrow was arrested on suspicion of importation of cannabis and a 46-year-old man from Barrow was arrested on suspicion of burglary. A third man was arrested for breach of a court order.

On Friday officers made four further arrests. A 34-year-old man from Carlisle was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs. A 45-year-old woman from Carlisle was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. Both were subsequently released under investigation.

Officers also arrested a 20-year-old man from Kendal on suspicion of offences including common assault, theft and taking a vehicle without consent. He was subsequently released on bail.

Operation Merlin resulted in almost 100 arrests across 2023.

Superintendent Sarah Jones said: “We will continue to pursue those people who think they are above the law and believe they can commit offences or evade justice with impunity.

“We will continue to carry out drugs warrants at address across the county, whilst pursuing those who think they can get away with ignore court orders and bail conditions.

“We continue to ask the public to be our eyes and ears in the community. If you suspect someone is acting illegally in your neighbourhood, contact the police today so officers can take action.”

If you have information regarding criminality in your area, you can report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit

You can also phone on 101.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 in an emergency or when a crime is in progress.