Operation Merlin – which sees officers proactively targeting wanted individuals including through the execution of warrants – resulted in arrests last week for offences including possession of Class A drugs, GBH and robbery.
The four-day operation (Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri) resulted in the arrest of 17 individuals sought for offences, as well as failure to attend court and prison recall.
On Monday (7 July), officers were in the Furness area where they arrested two men for failing to attend court, as well as a man sought for recall to prison. They also arrested a man who was sought on suspicion of theft and breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). He was subsequently released on police bail.
On Tuesday (8 July), officers were in the Kendal and Eden area where they arrested a man sought for grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon. He was subsequently released on police bail. Officers also arrested a second man sought for possession of Class B drugs with intent to supply. He was subsequently released under investigation.
On Thursday (10 July), officers were in the Carlisle area, where they made a further six arrests. This included Wayne Elliott, 47, of William Morris Avenue, Cleator Moor. He was charged with possession of Class A drugs and bailed to attend Workington Magistrates’ Court on 5 August 2025.
Officers also made four arrests for failure to attend court and an arrest of a man sought for affray. He was subsequently bailed.
On Friday (11 July), officers were in West Cumbria where they made a further five arrests. Included was a man sought for ABH and affray – he was subsequently bailed – and a man sought for robbery – also bailed. Officers also arrested and bailed a woman sought for theft and another woman sought for theft and failure to attend court. The final arrest was a man sought for failing to attend court.
Superintendent Matt Pearman said: “The arrest of 17 people sought for offences, as well as failing to attend court appearances and recall to prison, marks another successful operation.
“We will continue to target those people who are outstanding for serious offences and who think they are above the law.
“People can expect more Operation Merlins in 2025 and beyond.
“My message to anyone who knows they are outstanding and sought by the police is to hand themselves in today before our officers arrive at your door.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Seventeen arrests over four days is a brilliant achievement and highlights Cumbria Constabulary’s contempt for criminality.
“It sends the clear message that Cumbria is not a soft touch or easy target for criminals – if you commit a crime, you will be caught and face the consequences.
“If you know you have a warrant against you, I strongly encourage that you hand yourself in before the Police knock on your door.
“If you know of someone that is wanted by the Police, contact 101 or 999 in an emergency. Let’s work together to protect Cumbria from crime.”