Police from across the Met arrested 14 people in the Chingford and Epping area in a series of drug and gun raids (From This Is Local London)

Police from across the Met arrested 14 people in the Chingford and Epping area in a series of drug and gun raids

7:52am Wednesday 8th July 2009 in

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A SERIES of dawn raids have taken place around Chingford and Epping in a police crackdown on violence, drugs and guns.

Following a 14-month covert operation, involving more than 100 officers from across the Met, 14 arrests were made after 12 addresses were targeted at about 6am today (Wednesday).

Those arrested were taken into custody at east London police stations.

The operation is the largest of its kind in the last three-and-a-half years.

During the raids, police also seized cash, drug-related paraphernalia, guns and stolen property.

Borough commander Chief Superintendent Mark Benbow said: "We were able to establish that gangs were responsible for the purchase and sale of Class A drugs.

"Their activities relied on the use of weapons."

At least one arrest connected to drug dealing has so far been made.

Officers picked up a man at Bar Lush in Station Road after breaking down the door.

A flat was then searched for drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Ch Supt Mark Benbow said: "This operation has been going on for 14 months, supported by the specialist crime directorate."

Bar Lush could now be shut down as a result.

About ten officers swooped on the address, including about five specialist entry officers.

The raids were part of a bid to disrupt organised crime and make a "public statement".

"It's the biggest operation I've been privileged to be involved in, in the last three-and-a-half years," Ch Supt Benbow said.

"We have some real challenges in the borough and this is significant step towards tackling one of them."

About nine teams of officers took part in the raids in order to tackle all the addresses at the same time.

Specialist equipment was used to break down doors at some of the addresses and at least two drugs dogs were involved.

Cabinet member for community safety Cllr Afzal Akram said: "From my perspective, I think it's a great help with the problems we're having in the borough.

"Hopefully, it will take a lot of things off the street."

Ch Supt Benbow added: "It means that we're on the front foot again to combat drug dealing in Chingford.

"We will not stop until people stop dealing in drugs."

Anyone with information about drug or gun crime is urged to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.