Grenade arrest
A RUNCORN man was among seven suspects arrested as part of an investigation sparked by a grenade that was left under a car in Warrington earlier this year.
Detectives from Cheshire police’s serious organised crime unit swooped on the 31-year-old as warrants were executed at Lilac Crescent in Runcorn and three addresses in Warrington.
Three men were arrested in Warrington and three further men were produced from prison.
The seven males, all aged between 28 and 31, were rounded up on Tuesday morning.
They were all arrested on suspicion of conspiring to possess explosives and conspiracy to supply cocaine and taken into custody to help officers with their enquiries.
A Cheshire police spokeswoman said the arrests are not terrorist related and came after a grenade was placed under a car on Cleveland Road in War- rington in the early hours of February 24, 2018.
Detective Chief Inspector Mike Evans, of Cheshire serious organised crime unit, said: “Since the device was discovered a lengthy investigation has enabled detectives to establish the full circumstances of what took place.
“By gathering evidence and intelligence it has helped lead us to those we believe were responsible.
“Protecting vulnerable people and our communities from serious and organised crime is paramount.
“Today’s arrests send a very clear message ● that we are dedicated and committed in finding all those involved in criminal activity.”
DCI Evans added: “Our fight against serious and organised crime continues and we will not stop until those involved realise Cheshire is a very difficult place to operate.
“It is everybody’s business to help disrupt organised crime within our communities and we need your support in providing us with any information.
“If you do not feel comfortable speaking to a police officer then you can pass information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”