Police in Southend have ramped up their fight against gang-related crime with a series of dramatic raids this morning, leading to the arrest of two men suspected of drug dealing.
Officers swooped on two addresses—one in Great Wakering and another in Shoebury—as part of a wider operation targeting gang activity and serious violence in the city.
During searches of both properties, officers uncovered a stash of substances believed to be Class A drugs, along with a significant amount of cash and weapons. The two men, aged 22 and 27, were taken into custody on suspicion of being involved in the supply of Class A drugs. They remain in police custody for questioning.
Chief Inspector Dave Browning, Southend’s newly appointed district commander, issued a stark warning to those involved in organised crime.
“We are committed to a sustained and significant operation in Southend to stamp out incidents of serious violence and to identify those involved in activities which are, unfortunately, inextricably linked to that behaviour,” he said.
“This morning, two men were arrested as part of this ongoing operation – and I will be blunt about it, they won’t be the last.”
He continued: “As I have said before, to the people who we believe to be involved in violence and in activities connected to violence in our city, you will be identified, and you will be arrested.”
The crackdown follows a wave of violent incidents in Southend in recent months, including shocking reports of knife fights in the streets. With police intensifying their efforts, many residents are hopeful this marks a turning point in making the city safer.
Sue Brown, a local resident, praised the police action, saying: “Well done. Let’s make our streets safer.”
As officers continue their investigations, authorities are urging anyone with information about gang activity or drug-related crime in Southend to come forward and assist in the fight to reclaim the city’s streets.
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