Merseyside Police arrest man & woman for drug supply offences as a result of taxi licensing checks

Image credit : Twitter @MerPolSthSefton

A male and female from Waterloo have been arrested by Merseyside Police for drug offences in South Sefton.

As part of 'Operation Pelican', a large amount of cocaine was recovered during taxi licensing checks by Merseyside Police South Sefton division.

The arrests were highlighted on social media by Merseyside Police @MerPolSthSefton.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Operation Pelican Officers today continued with Operation Aftermath.

"As part of this officers have arrested an adult male and female from Waterloo for Drug Supply Offences after a large amount of cocaine was recovered as a result of taxi licensing checks."

This was part of their continuing work for Operation Aftermath. The main aim of this is to educate drivers about the signs of child exploitation and county lines activity. However this operation also clamps down on illegal activity that takes place in taxis and keeps Sefton's taxis maintaining a high standard.

Officers stopped over 30 private hire vehicles. This resulted in 3 defect notices being issued and 1 suspension notice to licensed drivers. 10 stop searches where conducted with the seizure of Class A and B drugs. This resulted in 3 arrests for Drug Supply and possession.

Leaflets were handed out and stickers stuck in cabs. These stickers have a QR code that direct members of the public to the Children's Society 'Look Closer' campaign.

Merseyside Police said officers will continue to work with licensed drivers and support them in their vital role in the community and also help educate them to 'Look Closer' to protect vulnerable people that may use their services.