POLICE smashed down doors of suspected drug dealers in a series of dawn swoops across Bolton.

The five simultaneous raids, at 7am yesterday, came after a further five homes were targeted on Tuesday and 13 people were arrested.

The action formed part of Operation Biscuit — which is targeting street dealers involved in the distribution of class-A drugs in Bolton.

About 50 officers were involved in the intelligence-led raids which have been months in planning.

Detective Inspector Stuart Wilkinson, of Bolton’s Organised Crime Unit, said: “Today shows how we are serious about taking action against the people that cause harm in our communities through the sale and use of illegal drugs.

“The community told us that they had concerns about drug dealing and the associated criminal behaviour “We will continue to crack down on drug activity and all information that is passed to police is investigated and acted upon.”

Ten men and three women were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply drugs as a result of the raids. Six have now been charged.

Moubin Patel, aged 22, of Jennaby Walk, Halliwell, has been charged with conspiracy to supply heroin.

Five men have also been charged with conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine.

They are: Andrew Ferguson, aged 46, of Tonge Moor Road, Bolton, Andrew Anderson, aged 30, of Galgate Close, Hulme, Nafan Hussain, aged 22, of Dorking Close, Astley Bridge, Shabab Hussain, aged 24, of Lever Edge Lane, Great Lever, and Mudassar Shamim, aged 27, HMP Prison, Manchester.

A 24-year-old man arrested at Blackshaw House, Deane, and a 34-year-old woman arrested at Dingle Walk, School Hill, were both still in custody last night being interviewed by police.

Anyone concerned about drug dealing in their area should ring Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.