Police Seize Drugs in 'Cuckooed' House in Ealing
Vulnerable resident transferred to safety after being exploited by drug dealers
Police found 18 wraps of crack cocaine and nine wraps of heroin. Picture: Met Police
August 10, 2026
A vulnerable Ealing resident has been moved to safety after neighbourhood officers uncovered what they believe was a case of “cuckooing” linked to a local drug-dealing gang.
Police from the Ealing Common and Hanger Hill Safer Neighbourhood Teams launched the operation on Tuesday 4 August after receiving intelligence that a house in multiple occupation was being used as a base for dealing crack cocaine and heroin. Officers suspected that the resident – described as vulnerable – had been targeted and exploited by criminals who had taken over their home.
Cuckooing is a form of exploitation in which drug dealers or organised crime groups occupy the property of someone who is unable to resist or challenge them, often using intimidation, coercion or manipulation. Homes are then used for storing, preparing or selling drugs, placing both the resident and the wider community at risk.
During patrols, Police Sergeant Ashley Love and PCs Stack, Hussain and Humphreys saw a man climb over a small fence to enter the HMO. He remained inside for around ten minutes before emerging and attempting to cycle away. Officers stopped him and carried out a search under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Inside a large clingfilm ball they found 18 wraps of crack cocaine and nine wraps of heroin, with an estimated street value of £270. The man was arrested and later charged with possession with intent to supply both crack cocaine and heroin. He has been remanded to appear in court.
Following the arrest, officers were able to gain the trust of the resident believed to have been cuckooed. Writing on MetEngage, Sergeant Love said the individual had now been relocated to emergency accommodation outside London and was receiving support. “Enquiries continue into other members of the crime gang,” he added.
Sergeant Love urged residents to remain alert to signs of exploitation. “Please continue to be vigilant. If you have vulnerable neighbours, look for signs of people coming and going, or a change in their general mood and behaviour that suggests they are being exploited.”
Concerns can be reported to the Metropolitan Police on 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Click here to sign up for Met Engage if you haven’t already done so.
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