Local Priorities Drug dealing/ drug use Message

I wanted to provide an update regarding drug dealing / drug use, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

“Officers from Central West BCU (AW) have executed a series of warrants across London as part of an operation in South Westminster. Officers recognised that Drug supply was prevalent in the area and identified that such activity often leads to the exploitation of children and vulnerable people and attracts significant anti-social behaviour that impacts on residents, neighbours and other occupants.

Between 4th and 14th August, AW officers executed 18 warrants at residential addresses across London and Essex. 18 suspects were arrested, of whom 12 have so far been charged with in excess of 30 separate offences, including the supply of Class A Drugs, being concerned in the supply of class A Drugs and Possession with Intent to Supply Class A.

The timing of this activity was planned to maximise disruption to organised crime ahead of Notting Hill Carnival. More than a dozen separate suppliers operating in the area have been disrupted and various items were seized including class A Drugs, weapons and ammunition. This co-ordinated action was supported by partners including Westminster City Council and wider Neighbourhood Teams who in parallel have sought closure orders against 4 premises where anti-social behaviour is prevalent.

Superintendent Natasha Evans who runs the Neighbourhood teams in Westminster said “Drug dealing exploits vulnerable people, drives criminality and the resulting antisocial behaviour often blights the lives of local residents. The MPS remain committed to targeting those involved in Drug supply and profit from the misery of others.”

Further arrests, charges and police activity are anticipated in the coming days and weeks and neighbourhood teams continue to work closely with partners and community members to reduce criminality & ASB linked to drug supply in the area.”

We are committed to tackling drug dealing wherever we find it. We will keep you updated on our efforts to do this in your area, but if you have any concerns or evidence, it is important you report this as soon as possible.  

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

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