The 24-hour operation involved officers from multiple specialist units carrying out coordinated enforcement activity targeting drug crime, organised criminality, dangerous weapons and anti-social behaviour across the borough.
The day began with a series of early-morning raids in areas including Hindley, Scholes, Bickershaw and Leigh. Officers executed 12 warrants in total, recovering dozens of cannabis plants, around a kilogram of suspected cocaine and thousands of pounds in suspected criminal cash.
Police also seized several weapons during the operation, including two suspected firearms, an imitation firearm, two tasers, a samurai sword and a knuckle duster.
Alongside enforcement activity, officers worked with partner agencies to safeguard vulnerable residents believed to be at risk of exploitation by criminal groups. These visits aimed to provide support while also gathering intelligence for future investigations.
Trading Standards teams carried out inspections in Leigh targeting the sale of illicit goods. More than £8,000 worth of illegal cigarettes and vapes were seized, along with additional quantities of suspected criminal cash. Licensing officers also checked compliance with laws relating to underage sales of alcohol and vaping products.
Specialist units including the Serious and Organised Crime team conducted targeted operations in Atherton and Tyldesley, while Tactical Aid Units patrolled known hotspot areas throughout the day. Officers using Live Facial Recognition technology were also deployed in Wigan town centre.
Roads policing teams issued 56 Traffic Offence Reports and seized 23 vehicles during the operation.
Of the 60 people arrested, 26 have since been charged or cautioned, while a further 22 have been released on bail pending further enquiries. The remaining suspects remain in custody for questioning.
Police said community engagement formed a key part of the operation alongside enforcement measures. Officers visited schools to deliver talks on knife crime and youth safety, while local businesses received advice and crime prevention materials focused on cyber-crime and other common offences.
High-visibility patrols continued throughout the day, with officers engaging with residents, commuters and businesses across the district. Police described the operation as part of an ongoing effort to disrupt criminal activity while strengthening community confidence and public safety.
