A suspected drug dealer was found trying to hide in a neighbour's property during an apartment block raid targeting criminals who use the mobile encryption service EncroChat.
The failed bid to avoid capture came as cash and suspected cannabis were seized after officers stormed an apartment in West Derby Village this morning.
As well as the suspect found hiding, officers also arrested two other suspects, another man and a woman after the raid today at Downfield Close.
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The swoop was carried out as part of huge international police operation Operation Venetic, targeting criminals who used the mobile encryption service EncroChat.
The operation involves European law enforcement agencies working with the National Crime Agency and supported across the UK by police forces and regional organised crime units.
Police released pictures of the retrieved cash and drugs as well as images of police at the scene.
A Merseyside Police spokesperson said: "Detectives have arrested three people on suspicion of drug supply offences following activity in West Derby Village this morning.
"Officers attended at an apartment in Downfield Close to locate a suspect who was found attempting to hide.
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Police said a 28-year-old man from West Derby was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs, and possession of criminal property.
A man and woman, aged 38 and 34 respectively, were also arrested at the location on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cannabis after drugs and cash were found (pictured).
All three people have been taken to police stations for questioning.
Around 60,000 users of EncroChat have been identified worldwide, with about 10,000 of them in the UK – all involved in coordinating and planning the supply and distribution of drugs and weapons, money laundering and other criminal activity.
Detective Sergeant John Molyneux said: “Although the man in question attempted to evade arrest, he was found following a thorough search.
"We’d like to thank other residents for their patience as our enquiries were being carried out, and these three people will now be questioned.
“If you have any information about suspected drug supply or storage where you are, please come forward directly or via Crimestoppers anonymously and we will take action.”
