A DAY of targeted police action has seen 25 people arrested, with officers taking a ‘zero-tolerance approach’.

Cheshire Police has confirmed that arrests for various offences were made on Monday across the county as part of Operation Crossbow.

The force says it is part of its ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal activity, including those crossing the border to commit crime in Cheshire.

It involved officers from several departments across the force, including roads policing, motorcycles, dogs, drones, the underwater search team and voluntary officers.

Following a morning briefing at Cheshire Police’s headquarters in Winsford, officers made their way to key locations.

Operation Tramline was utilised on the M6, with officers using an unmarked HGV to patrol the motorway, identifying any offences committed by drivers travelling into or through Cheshire.

Hotspot locations known for criminality were targeted across the county, helping to disrupt various types of offending and community issues, such as drug-related activity and anti-social behaviour.

As part of the day, Operation Hunted was also carried out, seeking to arrest individuals wanted on a variety of offences.

The overall results from the day included 25 arrests being made for offences including drug matters, possession of an offensive weapon, burglary and prison licence recall.

Moreover, 20 traffic offence reports were issued across Cheshire’s roads to people using mobile phones while driving, not using a seatbelt and overweight vehicles.

More than 170 motorists were captured travelling above the speed limit, while other action saw e-bikes and e-scooters seized.

Items recovered by the underwater search team included mobile phones and a knife, with a warrant also conducted in Runcorn in relation to drugs offences.

A knife arch was utilised, as were stop searches following positive indications by a drugs dog.

In addition, more than 40 unannounced visits to registered sex offenders across Cheshire were conducted by the sex offender management unit to ensure they were complying with conditions.

CI Jamie Lewis, who oversaw the operation, said: “Yesterday’s operation highlighted our zero-tolerance approach to criminality across Cheshire.

“Throughout the day, we used a whole host of tactics to disrupt criminals working in Cheshire, and it is important to note that we use these regularly as part of our everyday policing tactics.

“We ensure the full force of the law is used against those who think they can commit crime in our communities, and I hope this will reassure the public that we are always striving to stay one step ahead and stamp down on illegal activity.”

CC Mark Roberts said: “Our officers are committed to protecting our communities and work tirelessly every day to prevent and disrupt criminal activity.

“This latest operation shows just a small snapshot of their unwavering efforts.

“We are sending out a strong message that Cheshire is a hostile environment for those who wish to commit crime – you will be located, and you will be held responsible.”