A DRUGS raid has uncovered a suspected dealing ring within Merseyside Police.

The force's Professional Standards Unit swooped last weekend, arresting three officers on suspicion of cannabis offences. A fourth has since been arrested.

The whole group is now suspended from duty and an investigation is now under way.

Andrew Bird, 34, of Fazakerley, was arrested on Friday, May 15, and charged with possession with intent to supply and supply of the Class B drug.

He appeared before Liverpool City Magistrates on May 18, alongside co-defendant Darren Burns.

Burns, 31, of Southport, arrested on the same night, is charged with possession of cannabis with intent to supply.

A 32-year-old officer was also arrested on Friday, May 15, and an officer, aged 43, and from Allerton, was arrested on Sunday, May 17.

Both have been bailed without charge.

A police spokesperson said: “The police service needs to ensure that the public has confidence in its officers and staff to act with integrity.

“Merseyside Police takes the professional standards of its officers and staff extremely seriously and, as a result, the Force takes swift action (as in this instance) to maintain and uphold the integrity of the organisation and police service as a whole.”