Major crime crackdown on Merseyside sees seven arrests and discovery of large cannabis farm
Police target those involved in drug dealing, serious violence, criminal damage, the exploitation of vulnerable people and anti-social behaviour.
Last updated 12th Sep 2026
A major multi-agency operation targeting crime and anti-social behaviour in Rock Ferry and New Ferry has resulted in seven arrests and the discovery of a large cannabis farm containing more than 850 plants.
Merseyside Police joined forces with Wirral Council, Trading Standards, Merseyrail and HM Revenue and Customs for a coordinated day of action on Friday, focusing on issues including drug dealing, serious violence, criminal damage, the exploitation of vulnerable people and anti-social behaviour.
The operation was planned following intelligence gathered through neighbourhood policing teams, community engagement, partner agencies and information provided by residents.
Early morning warrants were carried out as officers targeted individuals suspected of involvement in organised crime, including drug supply and human trafficking.
One of the most significant discoveries was made at a property on Bebington Road, where officers uncovered a large-scale cannabis farm spread across multiple floors of the building. More than 850 cannabis plants were found inside, with Scottish Power attending to make the premises safe.
Police are now appealing for information from anyone who may have noticed suspicious activity or unusual vehicle movements in the area.
Seven Arrests Made
During the operation, seven people were arrested across Rock Ferry, New Ferry and Birkenhead.
Those arrested included:
A 26-year-old man on suspicion of commercial burglary, possession of cash, controlled drugs and an offensive weapon.
A 33-year-old woman on suspicion of theft and fraud offences.
A 36-year-old woman who was wanted on recall to prison.
A 23-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man on suspicion of retail theft.
A 48-year-old woman on suspicion of drug driving.
A 41-year-old man who was wanted on recall to prison.
Officers also worked alongside Merseyrail, carrying out patrols and stop-search activity at railway stations and on the rail network in an effort to deter criminal behaviour, identify offenders and reassure passengers.
Meanwhile, Trading Standards officers and HMRC inspectors visited vape shops and convenience stores to tackle the sale of illegal tobacco and vaping products.
Mounted police officers were also deployed throughout Rock Ferry and New Ferry, providing a visible presence and engaging with residents and businesses.
'A Clear Message'
Chief Inspector Colin Dyer said the operation demonstrated the commitment of police and partners to tackling crime and protecting local communities.
He said: “Today's activity may have been focused on specific areas here on the Wirral, but it sends a clear message that we will continue to target those involved in crime and anti-social behaviour and protect the communities they affect.
“We know issues such as drug dealing, violence and anti-social behaviour can have a real impact on people's lives and their sense of safety. By working closely with our partners, we can tackle these problems more effectively and address the concerns that matter most to local residents.
“The information and reports we receive from the public play a vital role in helping us take action. I would encourage anyone with information about criminal activity in their area to continue sharing it with us so we can keep disrupting crime and making our communities safer.”
Councillor Jenny Johnson, Chair of Wirral Council's Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee, praised the joint operation and warned that those involved in criminal activity would continue to be targeted.
She said: “Once again our hard-working officers have joined with counterparts in the police and other agencies to tackle people who are involved in activities that are harmful to our communities.
“I hope they soon get the message that they will be identified and targeted and their activities are not welcome in Wirral and will be stopped.”
Police are urging anyone with information about criminal activity in their community, including suspicious activity linked to the cannabis farm on Bebington Road, to come forward and report it.