Cops spotted in ‘Breaking Bad’ gear in huge drug raid on shipping container in Oldham

Greater Manchester police have uncovered a shipping container full of chemicals in Royton, Oldham.

Officers from the Serious Organised Crime Group launched a dawn raid yesterday (1 February) and uncovered a ‘large-scale’ drugs manufacturing operation. Two men, aged 47 and 49, were arrested on suspicion of production of drugs and money laundering and were taken into police custody for questioning.

Detective Sergeant Alex Brown of GMP’s Serious Organised Crime Group told the public not to be alarmed if they see officers in protective suits and masks, akin to those worn in drugs-themed American drama Breaking Bad.

The detective said: “These warrants and seizures are another huge step in our crackdown of the illegal drug market, which is heavily linked to exploitation and serious violence. The full extent of the operation is still being uncovered by officers at multiple addresses across Greater Manchester.

“Please don’t be alarmed if you see police in protective suits, this is standard procedure to ensure the safety of our officers. If anyone has any questions or concerns, please speak to one of the local officers, they are there to help you.

“As always, we would ask that anyone with information or anyone with concerns to contact us as we work to disrupt serious crime across the region. Intelligence from members of the public continuously helps us with our on-going investigations - no matter how small the information may seem.”

Information can be shared online via GMP’s LiveChat facility here. Alternatively, details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.