An Oldham man has been jailed after police found evidence of a drug operation and money laundering.
Police stopped Matthew Harrison, of Lees New Road, Oldham, while he was driving his black BMW along Middleton Road in Oldham on Thursday 18 September 2025 around 2:35pm.
Harrison was detained while the police searched his car.
They found a substantial quantity of cannabis, cocaine and MDMA tablets.
Harrison was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A and class B drugs.
After a forensic test of the drugs discovered in Harrison’s car, they were found to be 6kg of cannabis, 55g of cocaine and 1,000 MDMA tablets.
Police conducted a search at the 52-year-old’s home address while he was in custody.
Officers discovered a total of £156,000 in cash, which was hidden under the drawers in bedside cabinets.
A Rolex watch, several paintings and two cash-counting machines were also seized.
Harrison pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class B drugs (cannabis), possession of class A drugs (MDMA) and money laundering at a previous hearing.
He was sentenced to 12 years in prison at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on Thursday 26 February 2026.
Programme Challenger, Greater Manchester’s partnership response to tackling serious and organised crime, was involved with this case.
The scheme aims to bring together law enforcement agencies, local authorities and community partners to address all forms of serious crime.
Detective Constable Andy Pearson, of the Oldham Challenger team, said: “This sentencing reflects the seriousness of Harrison’s actions and the harm that drug supply brings to our communities.
“Harrison was clearly operating to profit from the exploitation and misery caused by illegal drugs.”
DC Pearson highlighted the Challenger team’s efforts to remove harmful substances from the streets and bring offenders to court.
“Our message is simple: if you choose to engage in drug supply or criminal financial activity, we will identify you, we will take action, and you will be held accountable,” DC Pearson added.
If you are concerned about drug dealing in your local area, you can contact Greater Manchester Police via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.
Featured image credit: Greater Manchester Police