Five arrested in major Flintshire police operation targeting drugs and counterfeit goods

A large-scale police operation in Flintshire has led to five arrests and the seizure of drugs, counterfeit tobacco, and vapes, as officers target serious organised crime in the region.

Dubbed Operation Liberator, the initiative was launched to combat County Lines drug dealing, illegal immigration, and the sale of counterfeit tobacco products.

Flintshire North police officers, supported by local and regional law enforcement teams, executed a series of actions across the area on Wednesday, September 18.

The operation aimed to disrupt criminal gangs, safeguard vulnerable people from exploitation, and address organised crime affecting the community.

During the operation, police executed warrants at two addresses, resulting in the recovery of illegal drugs.

A 30-year-old man was arrested on multiple charges, including driving offences, possession of a firearm, cannabis, and offensive weapons.

Another man was arrested on suspicion of drug possession with intent to supply, money laundering, and driving without insurance or a licence.

A third individual was detained on suspicion of shoplifting, while two others were arrested for immigration violations, including breach of bail conditions.

Police also visited three premises in Flint, discovering large quantities of counterfeit vapes and tobacco. Officers seized 18 bags of illegal vaping products alongside counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco.

Activity also included disrupting suspected travelling criminals within the region and identifying immigration offences which included routine checks and examinations of HGV’s passing through the area.

British Transport Police officers supported the operation by conducting both visible and plain clothes patrols in the areas of Flint and Shotton railway stations to target those intent on using the rail network as part of their criminal activity within Flintshire.

The Motor Insurance Bureau also assisted Immigration and Traffic Officers which resulted in a stolen vehicle being recovered in Flint. Several vehicles were reported for various traffic offences including insecure loads.

Flintshire North Inspector Wesley Williams said: “This day of action highlights the work we do day in, day out, to crackdown on county lines and the organised criminals involved in the supply of drugs in Flintshire.

“Today’s results are testament to the effective joint working between forces and partners.

“Anyone who abuses vulnerable people and causes fear to our communities should expect firm and relentless action to be taken against them.

“However, today’s activity doesn’t stop here and we will continue our pursuit to protect our community, and making North Wales the safest place to live, work and visit in the UK.”