Merseyside Police launches second phase of Operation Vanguard in Anfield

A total of 34 people have been arrested today (Wednesday, 4 March), after dozens of warrants were carried out this morning as part of Operation Vanguard. 

The suspects arrested have been detained on suspicion of offences including possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, sexual offences and possession of indecent images.  

Additionally, offices have seized thousands of pounds in cash, drugs, three machetes, a Sur-ron e-bike, a Rolex watch and more during searches at the addresses, with enquiries continuing.

Approximately 300 Merseyside Police officers and staff are involved in the large-scale operation with the aim of locking down an area. This approach enables them to proactively target those causing the most harm to that community and involved in criminality. 

Anfield residents can expect to see a huge increase in police presence, including Matrix, County Lines specialists, Roads Policing, Investigation, mounted and dog teams and targeted teams.

Reinforcing Chief Constable Rob Carden’s commitment to have contempt for criminality whilst simultaneously showing compassion for victims and the law-abiding people, Operation Vanguard aims to address these concerns through supporting the day-to-day activity in which Local Policing officers carry out.

Operation Vanguard will be targeting those involved in serious organised crime, such as drug crime, serious violence, domestic abuse, modern-day slavery, robbery, burglary, County Lines, drug and drink driving, as well as other offences. 

As part of the EVOLVE Everton-Vauxhall Clear and Hold phases, Police have been targeting those involved in serious and organised criminality in Anfield. This combination of safeguarding, enforcement and engagement reflects a strong, multi-faceted approach to bettering safety and local quality of life overall.

This is the second time Merseyside Police have implemented Operation Vanguard, showcasing their determination to take those involved in criminality off the streets.

Earlier today, after they launched the operation, Chief Constable Rob Carden stated:

“This morning, 14 warrants have so far been carried out and throughout today our Roads Policing teams will be stopping cars believed to be used in criminality and taking action against drink and drug drivers, and a number of searches will be carried out, including searches by the North West Underwater Search Team.

“Today’s activity shows our complete and utter contempt for those involved in criminality, whilst at the same time giving the community the compassion, understanding and support they deserve. Our message to criminals is clear – we don’t want them in our communities, and we will be relentless in our pursuit of them.  The protection of the public is a vital part of today, and we will be supporting and safeguarding vulnerable victims, alongside our partners, including Liverpool City Council and local charities and support services.”

Giving a message to the public, Chief Constable Rob Carden added:

“I want to take this opportunity to urge members of the public to keep telling us where criminals are operating, where they are storing and carrying drugs and weapons, and I promise we will use all the powers and tools at our disposal to take robust action. Your call could make a positive difference, not only for you and yours, but also for your neighbours and the wider community. You can make calls anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and we will act on information we receive.”

Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:

“It is essential that our communities feel safe in their homes and can enjoy everything their local area has to offer without worry or fear. We work closely with Merseyside Police throughout the year on a range of community safety initiatives that support residents and help prevent criminality. The action being taken by Merseyside Police today is vital to protecting our neighbourhoods and preventing harm.

“I want to thank Merseyside Police and all our partners for their hard work and dedication in delivering this operation. To those involved in criminality, today’s activity demonstrates that there is no hiding place. The safety and wellbeing of our communities will always come first.”

If you have any information which could help to prevent crime in your area, you can contact Merseyside Police by calling 101, or by contacting Merseyside Police on social media. You can also report information via the Merseyside Police website. In an emergency, always call 999.

Get more information about EVOLVE here.

Get the latest updates on news around our city region on our website.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.