Over 400 arrests made in Met focus on drug dealing

Dear Resident, 

Earlier this month, we participated in a record-breaking week, tackling drug crime and violence within our communities. 

The surge of action came as part of County Lines Intensification Week, where police forces across the country join to tackle drug dealing, particularly targeting gangs who smuggle drugs in or across cities. 

Across London, the Met’s efforts saw 415 offenders arrested, 85kg of cocaine and heroin, and 72 weapons seized, as well as providing support and safety to many vulnerable adults and young people. 

These results highlight the strength of our partnership work and the determination across teams to protect communities, safeguard vulnerable individuals and relentlessly pursue those who exploit them. 

Here locally in East Area, we have been involved in carrying out significant Protect/Prevent work through the closure of a cuckooing address identified by CMARC for drug use, anti-social behaviour and prostitution. A drug warrant led to the recovery of a small amount of white powder and evidence of drug use. The address was issued with a Closure Notice, which was subsequently escalated to a Partial Closure Order at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court, safeguarding vulnerable occupants and disrupting criminal activity.