Drugs Worth Over £1m Seized During Operations

More than £1 million worth of drugs have been seized so far during a national 'tackling drugs' week.

There have been approximately 65 arrests for various offences including cannabis cultivation, possession of class A and B drugs and possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs.

Drugs seized included a large quantity of Diazepam tablets from one borough with a street value of £540,000 and cannabis resin in blocks with a street value of £386,000.

A number of raids have closed down cannabis factories all over London. One closure resulted in the seizure of 1400 cannabis plants with a street value of approximately £280,000 and harvested skunk with a street value £80,000.

Firearms and imitation firearms have also been seized.

There have also been a number of proactive activities to increase drug awareness including educational visits to local schools and colleges, touring and static displays with advice and information, as well as engaging with local residents and business communities about the impact of drugs in their area.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Allan Gibson said: "The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), together with its many partner agencies, has made a significant contribution to National Tackling Drugs Week in undertaking operations and activities that are designed to lead to increased community safety in London.

"Staff from Safer Neighbourhood and Community Teams, through to specialist squads such as Operation Trident, have been engaged in tackling all levels of drug related crime as well as providing information to the public to increase understanding of the harm caused by drugs, and the support services that are available. As a result of NTDW, many arrests have been made, and guns, drugs and money seized from criminals across London preventing their use in harming local communities.

"Drugs enforcement work continues throughout the year, and NTDW has provided a snapshot of the harm reduction work that is carried out by the MPS and its partner agencies in tackling drugs and, together, making London safer."

(JM/BMcC)