SIX men were arrested this week as part of an ongoing investigation into gun crime and arson attacks in St Helens, police have revealed.

The arrests, which took place on Wednesday and Thursday, relate to incidents in Derbyshire Hill Road and Leonard Street in February 2012 when shots were fired at addresses.

They are also connected to arson attacks in Parr and Sutton last year.

Four suspects were held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit indictable offences whilst in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to commit arson.

  • A 31-year-old man from St Helens
  • A 28-year-old man from Hindley, Wigan
  • A 27-year-old man and 22-year-old man, both from Bootle

Additionally, a 28-year-old man and a 25-year-old man, both from St Helens, were arrested on suspicion of committing arson.

All six have been bailed pending further enquiries.

Chief Superintendent Rob Carden said: “The arrests are part of a long-term ongoing investigation and residents should be reassured, even when they don't see immediate results, our officers are working constantly to put dangerous individuals before the courts."

The violent flashpoints are believed to be connected to a bitter feud between factions of the travelling community.

Trouble flared again last week when shots were fired in Derbyshire Hill. A boy and a man were arrested before being bailed.