On Monday 8 June, a significant joint police operation involving the Metropolitan Police, Essex Police, Kent Police, and British Transport Police resulted in 27 arrests and the seizure of £32,000 in cash. The operation targeted violent criminals smuggling drugs across London and the surrounding counties of Kent and Essex.
Using advanced Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras around the Dartford Crossing, officers stopped every flagged vehicle suspected of involvement in drug trafficking. Specialist units from the Met’s Violent Crime Taskforce, South East Violence Suppression Unit, Operation Venice, and Dogs Support Unit were deployed to disrupt the criminal networks. Simultaneously, British Transport Police conducted intelligence-led patrols on trains and at transport hubs to intercept drug traffickers operating on the rail network.
The operation’s results included 27 arrests related to possession of drugs, blades, and supply offences. Police also recovered four deadly knives, seized £32,000 in cash, and recovered 14 vehicles, including uninsured and stolen cars.
Detective Chief Inspector Shaun White of the Metropolitan Police said, “Drugs and violence are tightly linked, so hitting drug supply is key. Our officers use every tactic, from ANPR to specialist teams, to dismantle rings exploiting vulnerable people. There’s often a fine line between suspect and victim, which is why specialist support is vital. This joint operation shows our dedication to stopping violent crime in London. We won’t stop.”
Detective Superintendent Mike Worrall from Kent Police added, “County lines gangs devastate communities, preying on the vulnerable with exploitation and violence. Kent Police takes zero tolerance on dealers and exploiters. Tackling drug crime requires teamwork across forces, and this operation shows our commitment to bringing offenders to justice.”
Chief Inspector Lewis Basford of Essex Police commented, “Criminals use road and rail networks as lifelines for drugs and serious crime. We disrupted a number of offenders linked to violent and traffic crimes. Crime knows no borders – working with other forces is vital to stop organised criminals.”
Detective Superintendent Gareth Williams of British Transport Police stated, “Since December, we’ve ramped up operations against county lines on the rail network. This fight targets the violence and child exploitation all too often connected to drug gangs. Monday’s action is part of making transport networks hostile territory for criminals.”
Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, police remain relentless in tackling violent crime and drug dealing. Authorities urge anyone with information about weapons, exploitation, or drug crimes to come forward. The ongoing fight to protect communities and young lives continues.
Originally published by UKNIP.
