More than 300 arrested in 24-hour police operation

May 17 2008 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

MORE than 300 suspected criminals were rounded up by police during a 24-hour crackdown across Merseyside.

Suspected burglars and drug dealers with outstanding court and bail warrants were among those detained.

In total 303 people were arrested for offences including robbery, assault, burglary, prostitution, the supply of drugs, being in breach of bail conditions or failing to attend court.

Yesterday’s operation set a new record for the number of arrests in one day by Merseyside police, who also recovered a kilo of what is believed to be amphetamine, and seized 10 vehicles.

The intelligence-led operation began early on Thursday morning and ran until 8am yesterday.

Assistant chief constable Simon Byrne said: “We are determined to maintain our total war on criminals of all levels and we have worked with our partners to ensure we put as many offenders as possible back before the courts.

“Not only do people who are wanted continue to commit crime, but people who fail to appear, either at court or at the end of a bail period, disrupt the Criminal Justice System, costing the tax payer money and causing a great deal of distress to victims, witnesses and their families.

“I hope the activity of the past 24 hours has made one thing abundantly clear – if you are wanted, Merseyside police will not stop until you are found.”

If you have any information about crime in your area you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.