SEVEN men have been arrested after warrants were executed at 14 addresses on Merseyside - including in Newton-le-Willows -  this morning.

All those arrested are being taken to police stations on Merseyside where they will be questioned on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs.

Officers from the force's Matrix Serious Organised Crime (MSOC) team swooped in dawn raids in the second phase of an operation set up to tackle serious and organised crime. 

Warrants were executed at addresses in Old Swan, Kensington, Newton-le-Willows, Belle Vale and Speke this morning. Searches of the properties are ongoing. 

Detective Supt Chris Green, from the Matrix Serious Organised Crime team, said: “The action taken by officers this morning is part of the second phase of an operation targeting those involved in serious and organised crime within our communities. 

"Last week, warrants were executed at 17 addresses and 15 people were arrested, with 11 people subsequently charged with conspiracy to supply controlled drugs, Class A and B. 

"More than 300kg of cannabis resin was recovered from an address during the warrants carried out last week and during the ten month operation, officers have seized dozens of kilos of Class A drugs and cannabis, along with bladed weapons and firearms. 

“The activity carried out over the last two weeks is the culmination of an extensive and thorough investigation in to the supply of drugs into our communities. The investigation was put in place after members of the public raised concerns about drug dealing in their communities” 

Detective Superintendent Green, added: "We are relentless in our pursuit of those involved in serious and organised crime and we are committed to making our streets safer for our communities. 

"No one should have to put up with drug dealing, and the associated crime it brings, in their communities. We will work together with our communities to improve the quality of life in our neighbourhoods and make our communities stronger. 

“If you are aware of drugs crime, or any other crime, in your area let us know and we will take positive action and help you to improve your community. Calls to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 are anonymous and information provided could give us the opportunity to take positive action in your neighbourhood."