Officers arrest 303 in 24 hours

More than 300 people were taken into custody

More than 300 people wanted by police in Merseyside have been arrested over the space of 24 hours.

About 200 officers were involved in the operation to take 303 wanted men and women into custody under Merseyside Police's "total policing initiative".

Arrests were made for offences such as robbery, assault, burglary, and the supply of controlled drugs.

Officers seized 1kg of what is thought to be amphetamine during raids, along with 10 vehicles.

'Highest number'

Police launched raids at suspects' homes and also used automatic number plate recognition technology to spot vehicles associated with people wanted on warrant.

Assistant Chief Constable Simon Byrne said: "We are determined to maintain our total war on criminals of all levels and we have worked with our partners to ensure that we put as many offenders as possible back before the courts.

"This is the highest number of people arrested by the force in one day and is testimony to the planning and work that has gone in to this operation not just within the force, but with the Crown Prosecution Service.

"I hope these arrests send out a clear message - if you are wanted, Merseyside Police will not stop until you are found."