Early Morning Drugs Raids in Greenford, Northolt and Southall

18 people arrested  and quantities of class A and B drugs seized

Police in west London have carried out a series of dawn raids today (Wednesday 8 July) in a crackdown on drug dealing, violence and associated crime.

More than 200 officers from Hillingdon, supported by colleagues from across the Met, including the Territorial Support Group, Dog Support Unit, Air Support Unit as well as the Trident and Area Crime Command, took part in the co-coordinated raids which began at 05:00hrs

The intelligence-led operation saw officers carry out a total of 22 search warrants in the areas of Hayes, Greenford, Southall and Northolt.

So far, 18 people, including one woman, have been arrested, 14 of whom have been arrested on suspicion of supplying drugs.

In addition, three people have been arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs, one of whom was also arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

Those arrested, who are all aged between 17-30 years-old remain in custody at various west London police stations pending further enquiries.

Items seized so far include quantities of class A and class B drugs, approximately £2,000 in cash and a Range Rover.

Hillingdon Borough Commander, Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Downing, said: "Today's intensive operation has culminated from concerns, information and intelligence gathered from the community This activity one example of how we are making a real and long lasting difference to the lives of residents who deserve the assurance that their police service is the very best it can be.

"Listening to and acting on community concerns remains at the forefront in our fight against crime. Today's action is testimony to our ongoing commitment to protecting the public and bringing offenders to justice, and this work is by no means over."

In the last two years police in Hillingdon have conducted two similar intelligence-led operations to disrupt and dismantle criminal activity in the borough. In October 2013, 17 people were arrested and brought before the courts following simultaneous raids at addresses in Hayes. Most of those charged were jailed for the supply of Class A drugs.

In May 2014, officers carried out a series of raids at The Victoria public house in North Hyde Road in Hayes and 14 residential addresses across west London. Subsequently seven people were charged in connection with drugs offences, theft and anti-social behaviour and handed jail terms. Following this investigation, evidence was presented to Hillingdon Council regarding routine drug dealing and violence at The Victoria. As a result the venue had it's licence revoked.

To date 18 individuals are now serving prison terms of approximately 50 years in total.

Det Chief Supt. Downing continues: "Our drive to combat criminality is never stronger as we continue to build on our previous work. Inevitably this will mean moving with the times and developing effective tactics, which is something the entire policing team have already demonstrated with great effect.

“Positive change can only come from the voice of the community and I would like to thank those of you who have taken the time to speak out about this matter, however big or small.

"Together with our partner agencies and the community we are determined to stop offenders in their tracks and prevent another victim falling into their hands. Our message is clear; if you are intent on committing crime, you risk an early morning wake up call from our team and a future behind bars."

8th July 2015