Greater Manchester Police have launched a major operation targeting a suspected group accused of spreading violence and criminal activity across Heywood and surrounding areas of Rochdale. More than 250 officers executed twenty warrants during two coordinated waves of early morning raids, following months of intelligence gathering and investigation. Sixteen men aged between 19 and 49 and a 21-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of offences including drug supply, assault, violent disorder, burglary and robbery. Officers also recovered drugs, machetes, knives, suspected stolen property and a cannabis farm occupying two floors of a building. Investigators believe the criminal network has been involved in child exploitation, drug dealing, theft and cuckooing, where criminals take control of vulnerable people's homes. DS Hannah Taala, describing the operation as a significant blow against a group causing widespread misery, said that investigations remain ongoing. Police say they are determined to dismantle organised criminal networks, protect vulnerable residents, and restore safety and confidence throughout affected communities.