MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) – Police say 54 alleged drug dealers have been arrested in Manchester following an eight-month undercover operation that netted more than 10 pounds of drugs with a street value of $450,000.

About 30 people were arrested in Nashua, also suspected of dealing drugs.

Authorities say the arrests in Manchester began in April, but since Monday alone 28 people were arrested on charges of possession or selling crack, cocaine or heroin to undercover officers.

Police Chief John Jaskolka said Wednesday he “fully expects more arrests as the operation continues over the next few days and weeks.”

Officials said those arrested mostly are street-level dealers who were selling drugs in Manchester and surrounding communities, though there were a few mid- to high-level drug traffickers among them.

In Nashua, the investigation started earlier in the summer and was partially funded by federal dollars. Police said those arrested were dealing crack, cocaine, marijuana or heroin in quantities ranging from grams to an ounce.

“Forty-four individuals will be facing charges, which is the largest operation in recent memory by the Nashua Police Department,” Capt. Scott Howe said.

AP-ES-09-14-06 1750EDT


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