Manhunt for David McAlpine as part of EncroChat probe Operation Venetic

A hunt has been launched for a man who is wanted as part of a large-scale drugs operation.

National Crime Agency (NCA) investigators have issued an appeal to track down David McAlpine, 31, as part of a probe into the distribution of class A and B drugs throughout the UK.

McAlpine, from Liverpool, is said to have links to the city as well as nearby St Helens. He also has connections to North Wales and Wick and Thurso in the Scottish Highlands.

McAlpine's last known address was a barge moored on a canal in Maghull in Sefton, Merseyside.

McAlpine is around 6ft tall, and has a "broad build", hazel eyes and a scar on his forehead. He has previously had shoulder-length ginger hair but has also worn it shaved.

It is believed McAlpine knows he is wanted by the NCA as part of EncroChat probe Operation Venetic and will be "under significant stress".

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If spotted, members of the public are being warned not to approach McAlpine and contact the NCA immediately.

Mick Pope, NCA branch commander, said: "McAlpine will know he is wanted by the NCA and must be under significant stress.

"If he is reading this, I urge him to make contact with us."