THREE teenagers and a woman were arrested as part of a police and council crack down on drug dealing.

Two closures orders were also granted by the courts as part of the operation in Waltham Abbey.

Over the last few months Essex Police has been investigating issues involving a small minority of people involved in selling drugs and taking advantage of vulnerable adults and children. This has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and assaults.

Officers have been carrying out extra patrols in areas affected by this crime and anti-social behaviour, and targeting those suspected of being involved, including in Ninefields and Roundhills.

The Epping Forest District Police Community Safety Team have also supported Epping Forest District Council in securing closure orders for two properties in Caneland Court and one in Amesbury.

Magistrates granted the orders after a number of incidents associated with drug dealing.

It means no-one other than the registered tenant and authorised staff from Epping Forest District Council and Essex Police can enter the properties.

A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has been charged with possession of cannabis, possession of cocaine, two counts of affray, and two counts of possession of a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place. He is currently going through the courts.

A 17-year-old boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has been charged with two counts of being concerned in the supply of drugs, two counts of affray, and possession of a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place. He is also currently going through the courts.

A 47-year-old woman and a 16-year-old boy are currently on bail on suspicion of drugs offences.

District commander Chief Inspector Ant Alcock said: “We are determined to drive out drug dealers from our communities because the supply of illegal drugs is closely linked with violence, exploitation of children and vulnerable adults, anti-social behaviour and crimes such as burglary and theft.

“It also affects the quality of life for the majority of law-abiding residents who live in areas where dealers operate.

“Our community policing teams and officers from specialist teams such as Operation Raptor and Disruptor, have been working tirelessly to tackle these issues, including arresting offenders and making sure vulnerable people are kept safe.

“It’s not something enforcement alone can solve, which is why working with the council, charities, schools and other organisations is vital to educate young people especially about the dangers of drugs gangs and to help people get out of situations and lifestyles that put them at risk.

“Community support is also really important, and I want to thank residents for coming forward and providing information because it really does help us catch offenders and keep victims safe.

“We also consistently review our patrol plans so that we can then focus attention on areas where we have information to suggest there may be issues.”