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Police have closed Garlands nightclub on Eberle street after dramatically storming the premises following a covert investigation revealed class A drugs were being openly dealt in the popular city centre.

Detectives said "large quantities of drugs" were discovered after more than 140 officers descended on the popular club around midnight. The swoop followed months of investigations showed revellers brazenly selling illegal drugs to young students.

After closing the premises shortly after midnight, officers carried out an extensive search of the three-storey premises and found large quantities of what is believed to be "controlled drugs".

Two men aged 19 and 20 from West Derby and Birkenhead respectively we arrested inside the club on suspicion possession and supply of controlled drugs and taken to police stations to be interviewed by detectives.

Officers will appear in Liverpool Magistrates Court this morning to seek a closure order to keep the club shut after being given "no option" but to storm the club.

Around 300 students crowded out into the street, near Moorfields station, after Merseyside Police closed the club.

Video from the scene:

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Chief Supt Jon Ward said: "Liverpool has a reputation as a safe and vibrant city and this was recently recognised by the re-awarding of Purple Flag status for the city centre.

"Every weekend at least 100,000 people visit the city to enjoy the city's night life.

"The majority of the clubs and pubs in the city centre work closely with Merseyside Police and manage their venues in a responsible way, contributing greatly to maintaining the city's reputation as a great place to visit.

"Sadly, we have been given no option but to take positive action at this premises this evening following an extensive operation.

"Over the last few months officers have found that Class A drugs and other substances were being dealt openly within the premises.

"It is clear that this establishment didn't adhere to the same high standards as other licences premises in the city.

"This is not a victimless crime.

"Drug dealers are exploiting young, vulnerable people and selling them illegal drugs.

"In some instances those who have brought drugs such as GBL, which is actually an alloy wheel cleaner, have required hospital treatment and we are fortunate that there have been no fatalities.

"With four universities based in the city, many young people who are away from home for the first time find themselves enjoying the night life the city has to offer.

"We will be working with universities in the city in the coming days to warns students about the dangers that drugs and chemicals can have, particularly if mixed with alcohol, or other substances.

"We want these young people to enjoy their experience of Liverpool and don't want them to fall prey to unscrupulous drug dealers, who are only concerned with making a fast buck."

*Re-read our live updates from the raid