Arrests and weapons seized in drug operation.

On Thursday, 16 July, officers from East Area Command Unit executed five warrants as part of an ongoing investigation into an organised criminal network, believed to be concerned in the supply of controlled drugs, across Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge.

During the operation, officers gathered evidence relating to local drug supply networks and seized two weapons that will now no longer be carried on the streets.

The five warrants resulted in two arrests, one in Havering and one in Barking and Dagenham: 

A 21-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply controlled drugs.

A 20-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply controlled drugs. 

Both remain in custody at this time pending further enquiries. 

One warrant was conducted in Havering, two in Barking and Dagenham and one in Redbridge. A further warrant was conducted at an address in Essex.

Detective Sergeant Luke Hampton said: “We have arrested two men this morning who are believed to be concerned in the supply of what many people perceive to be a harmless recreational drug, but it doesn’t end there. 

“There is a significant burden placed on communities by the drug trade and the associated violence and use of weapons that goes with it. Our actions in recent weeks and in the future will continue to challenge that culture and ultimately improve the quality of life for our local residents and businesses.” 

Detective Superintendent Paul Trevers said: “Today’s arrests demonstrate our continued commitment to reducing violence, drug use and supply and the misery that they cause to local communities. 

”Significant disruption has been caused to a drugs network and two weapons have been removed from unsafe hands and can longer be used to cause harm or intimidate others.” 

Detective Inspector Yasmin Lalani leading the East Area Command Gangs Unit said: “Drugs are a common factor in gang violence. Through operations such as the one conducted today, we are determined to disrupt and destroy drug markets throughout our boroughs clearing a path to brighter futures for our youngsters.” 

The public play a huge role in helping to both prevent and detect crime. We need their help to identify those willing to commit terrible acts and carry weapons. We need to hear from anyone who has information about a crime, or about someone they suspect to be carrying a weapon or involved in organised crime. 

If you don’t want to speak to the police, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They are a totally independent charity and you remain 100 per cent anonymous, they never ask your name and they cannot trace your call, your IP address or device you use. Alternatively, visit their website https://crimestoppers-uk.org/. 

Advice and support is also available through organisations including Knife Free: https://www.knifefree.co.uk/get-help-support/ and www.met.police.uk/stopknifecrime

If you are a young person and don’t want to speak to the police, contact Fearless: https://www.fearless.org/en they are a totally independent charity and remain 100 per cent anonymous, they never ask your name and they cannot trace your call IP address or device you use.