Properties in Kendal were searched as part of a Cumbria-wide police operation that led to four arrests and the seizure of cocaine estimated to be worth £30,000.
The early-morning raids took place on Wednesday, September 30, at addresses in Kendal, Penrith and Barrow. The action formed part of Operation Alliance, a dedicated police crackdown on serious and organised crime.
What happened in the raids
Three men were arrested after officers raided a property on Crown Terrace in Penrith town centre. Police said they seized an estimated £30,000-worth of cocaine, a significant quantity of cash and two e-bikes from the address.
Two of the men, aged 23 and 35, were arrested on suspicion of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply and of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs. Both were released under investigation.
Jordan Wilby, 33, of no fixed address, was charged with possession of a class A drug with intent to supply and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property. He appeared at Barrow Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, October 1, where he entered no plea.
Mr Wilby is due to appear next at Carlisle Crown Court on October 30.
Separate Barrow arrest and Kendal searches
A 42-year-old man was arrested during a separate raid on Marsh Street in Barrow. He was arrested on suspicion of possessing a class B drug with intent to supply and was also released under investigation.
Further searches were carried out at a second address in Barrow and at properties in Kendal. Police said those searches resulted in no arrests.
The raids were funded by an £80,000 contribution from Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen, using money taken from criminals.
Police warning after Operation Alliance action
Inspector Martyn Irving said the raids had provided significant intelligence that could lead to further action. He warned people earning money from illegal drug supply that officers could soon arrive at their homes.
David Allen, who attended the Penrith raid, said the force had a zero-tolerance policy on drug dealing. He urged residents to continue reporting their suspicions to police.
