One operation in Prescot illustrated the scale and planning involved. Officers equipped with entry tools gained access to a flat while colleagues covered the rear of the property. A 68-year-old man was detained moments later. In total, ten warrants were carried out under the operation, which police have codenamed “Operation Soap”.

Background to the probe
According to investigators, the enquiry began in June 2023 when a man travelling from Liverpool to south Wales was stopped with approximately 90kg of amphetamine in his vehicle. Intelligence development placed the focus back on Merseyside, where officers believe facilities were being used to adulterate and prepare drugs for onward supply.

Subsequent warrants on 25 April 2024 targeted suspected laboratory sites. At an industrial premises in Bootle, officers reported locating around a tonne of suspected heroin adulterant and associated chemicals. A further warrant at a Huyton unit recovered roughly 550kg of suspected cocaine adulterant, while a simultaneous search in St Helens uncovered a suspected amphetamine laboratory, with around 80kg of amphetamine seized alongside other substances.

Police position
NWROCU say the investigation is ongoing and that those arrested will be interviewed on suspicion of involvement in a widespread conspiracy linked to drug production and supply. Officers describe the suspected operation as significant in scale, with individuals allegedly undertaking roles ranging from preparation and “cooking” to couriering and logistics.