MPS makes 28 arrests in crackdown on organised crime
Twenty-eight arrests were made by Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers during an operation targeting “two prominent drug dealing lines”.
The crackdown on organised crime was in response to community concerns on drug dealing and associated crimes, such as anti-social behaviour, in West Drayton, Cowley and Uxbridge.
The seven-week operation, which ran from February 9 to March 31, used “real-time intelligence” to disrupt criminal activities.
The MPS said: “Specialist officers led a targeted operation, focusing on disrupting two prominent drug dealing lines.
“During the investigation officers employed strategic tactics, such as regular patrols through areas with high levels of reported crimes and thorough searches of criminal databases to disrupt the distribution of Class A drugs.
“In a proactive effort, local West London officers worked alongside specialist officers who provided real-time intelligence on criminal activities.
“This collaborative effort within the Met highlights the use of intelligence-led policing to combat criminal activities to keep Londoners safe.”
Officers seized £3,000 worth of Class A and B drugs and £10,000 in cash during the operation.
Seven men been charged with offences in relation to this operation, the MPS said.
Sergeant Matthew Catlin, who was responsible for the investigation, said: “Drugs ruin lives and the ramifications that often play out and are felt by communities, where anti-social behaviour and violence impact innocent people.
“Our focus is dismantling these criminal networks piece by piece, ensuring that those involved in drug dealing and related crimes are brought to justice.
“We are committed to making London a safer place for residents by tackling drug crime at its root.”
During the operation, vulnerable drug users were also identified in the local area and officers provided them with specialist support, signposting them to health and rehabilitation services.