The frontline battle between Merseyside Police and drug dealers linked to the region was captured in high definition on the streets of Plymouth.
A massive operation led from Liverpool saw 46 suspects arrested in two days of raids, searches and vehicle stops in the south coast city.
The project led to dramatic scenes such as one suspect being rugby tackled by an inspector while trying to flee, and the seizure of terrifying weapons.
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The crackdown was led through Project Medusa, Merseyside Police’s specialist unit dedicated to fighting the supply of drugs across the country from Liverpool and the surrounding area.
The cocaine and heroin markets of Devon and Cornwall, along with parts of North Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire and Cumbria, are among those influenced by Merseyside.
The force joined up with Devon and Cornwall Police in a bid to hit dealers, couriers and safehouses this week, arrested dozens and seizing weapons.
Footage released showcased just how visible Merseyside Police’s presence in the city was, with force-marked patrol cars hitting the streets and suspects recorded being led into them.
The force hopes its presence sends a warning to those from the area who are causing trouble that they are being monitored.
Nine people were charged with a range of offences, including possession of drugs, dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit and assault.
Of the further 37 arrests, suspects were questioned on suspicion of offences including possession of drugs, being concerned in the supply of drugs, dangerous driving, money laundering and being in possession of offensive weapons.
Devon and Cornwall Police said: “A number of those arrested were from the Plymouth area but others were from outside the area, including from Merseyside.”
Heroin, cocaine, crack, cannabis and Spice, nearly £10,000 in cash along with 10 vehicles including an Audi and a Saab were seized alongside weapons that included a baseball bat, a butterfly knife, a zombie knife, three more large knives, a knuckle duster and a crossbow.
A replica Magnum revolver was also recovered.
Following the raids, Chief Superintendent Matt Longman, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said: “This has been a targeted, intelligence-led operation involving multiple forces aimed at making the communities of Plymouth safe.
“Our communities expect and want to see enforcement activity against drugs and this has shown them we can and will pursue those we believe to be involved in drugs activity and organised crime.
“Activity like this makes a real difference to our communities and sends a clear warning to those intent on bringing harm to those communities, both locally and from outside the force area, that Plymouth will not tolerate this behaviour and police will come together with others to target those offending.”
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