Leigh Canal Towpath.

Dear Resident,

Suspected Drugs Seized During Canal Patrol

Local Area Policing Team officers were on foot patrol today when they observed several known drug users walking towards the canal. As officers passed beneath a canal bridge, voices could be heard coming from a concealed area of undergrowth. Upon investigating, three known offenders were found sitting together within the vegetation.

Due to the circumstances, additional officers were requested to assist while the individuals were detained and searched. All three individuals were subsequently subjected to a Section 23 Misuse of Drugs Act stop search. Although the searches of the individuals proved negative, officers carried out a thorough search of the surrounding area.

During that search, officers located a tightly wrapped package concealed within the undergrowth in the exact area where the three individuals had been seen. The package contained:

• 12 wraps of suspected Class A "Brown" heroin
• 6 wraps of suspected Class A "White" cocaine

The drugs have an estimated street value of £200–£300 and have been seized for destruction.

Unfortunately, despite the circumstances, it was not possible to establish beyond doubt which individual had been in possession of the drugs. As a result, no arrests were made and the three individuals were released following the searches.

While no one was prosecuted on this occasion, the seizure has removed a quantity of harmful drugs from our streets and disrupted those involved in the local drugs trade.

The canal towpath is a popular route for anglers, walkers, runners, cyclists, and families. It should be a place where people can enjoy these activities safely and without being subjected to drug dealing or other criminal behaviour.

If you witness suspected drug dealing or any other illegal activity, please report it using one of the following methods:

• 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress
• 101 for non-emergency reports
• GMP LiveChat via Contact us | Greater Manchester Police
• Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers

This is only a small win, but a win all the same!

Illegal drugs continue to cause significant harm in our communities, fuelling crime, exploitation, and antisocial behaviour while devastating the lives of those affected.