Detectives have charged a man in their Operation Venetic investigation into the use of encrypted phones - known as Encrochat.
James Birch, of Brookbridge Road, Tuebrook, has been held on suspicion of drugs offences, including conspiracy to supply heroin and cocaine.
The 35-year-old appeared in Wirral Magistrates Court on Thursday, December 16 and was kept in custody.
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His case has now been adjourned until Thursday, January 13, for a pre-trial hearing at Liverpool Crown Court.
A spokesperson for Merseyside police said: "We have charged a 35-year-old man as part of the Merseyside Police response to Operation Venetic: a national investigation into the use of encrypted mobile devices, commonly referred to as Encrochat.
"James Birch of Brookbridge Road, Liverpool has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (heroin) and to offer to supply Class A controlled drugs, namely cocaine.
"Birch appeared at Wirral Magistrates Court yesterday (Thursday 16 December) and was remanded in custody.
"The case has been adjourned to Thursday 13 January 2022 for a Pre-Trial Preparation Hearing at Liverpool Crown Court."
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