Over one million suspected counterfeit pills have been seized by police officers in Manchester.

The campaign, Operation Vulcan, uncovered a haul of fake pills that were labelled as genuine pharmacy medicines.

These included dihydrocodeine, diazepam, lorazepam and codeine. All were found in a flat in Salford, the force said.

Cash was recovered from a man’s home and a woman was arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

Read more: Police investigate as pharmacies receive fake dihydrocodeine prescriptions

The search was carried out following the arrest of a driver on suspicion of possession with intent to supply, possession of cannabis, and drug driving, according to police.

Detective chief inspector Jen Kelly said: "This is a fantastic result for our communities. Counterfeit drugs pose a serious risk to vulnerable individuals and the sale of them often fuels the activities of organised crime groups." 

The raid on Manchester’s ‘Counterfeit Street’ is part of an ongoing bid to smash the selling of fake medicines as well as illegal drugs, counterfeit goods and other crime.

Read more: MHRA vows to investigate after media probe exposes ‘fake’ online pharmacies

Last year, more than three million medicines and medical devices valued at over £9m were seized by UK officers as part of a sting called Operation Pangea.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency subsequently launched its #FakeMeds campaign to encourage people to buy medication from safe and legitimate sources.