Seven arrests have been made following dawn raids.

Cheshire police’s war on drug-related crime was stepped up again with a series of strikes in Macclesfield and the Merseyside areas.

Five addresses were targeted – one in Macclesfield and four in Merseyside – as seven people, four men and three women, aged between 18 to 50, were arrested.

The strikes were part of the Force’s ongoing work with Operation Impact, which focuses on dismantling the supply of drugs into the county and its associated crime.

They are linked to the raids that took place last September in the Macclesfield and Congleton areas, which resulted in charges being brought against 27 people.

This morning’s action highlights the Force’s efforts to tackle those whose criminal actions linked to drugs brings misery to our communities.

As well as the arrests, quantities of drugs and cash were seized.

Charges are expected to be brought against the suspects.

A Cheshire police spokesman said: “This is yet another example that we’re here for our communities and here for justice and sends out a strong message that drug-related activity and its associated crimes will not be tolerated. Residents should not have to live in fear or intimidation of the illegal activity taking place in their neighbourhoods.

“The dismantling of highly organised gangs involved in selling drugs on our streets is one of the key priorities for the Force. Our communities play their part in this, and they should be assured that we welcome any information they have as we take this type of crime seriously.”

Anyone with any information about drugs activity in their neighbourhoods, or any crime, should contact Cheshire police on 101. Information can also be passed on anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111.