Eleven people arrested during drugs raids
Warrants were carried out in Colchester, Chelmsford and London this morning
Eleven people have been arrested during a series of raids, including in Colchester.
Essex Police has worked with the Metropolitan Police Service and Eastern Region Special Operations Unit, assisted by Hertfordshire Police, to carry out warrants at addresses in Chelmsford, Colchester, and London this morning (1 February).
Crack cocaine and heroin, as well as cash, with a total value of around £15,000, has been seized.
Detective Chief Inspector Lewis Basford, of the Serious Violence Unit, said:
"Today’s arrests are part of our investigation into the Max and TJ lines, which operated out of London and supplied crack cocaine and heroin in Chelmsford.
"Gangs operate across borders and wherever there is demand, so we are dismantling them at every level and severing their links, making it even harder for them to operate.
"They often prey on the most vulnerable people in our communities, including children and teenagers.
"They use them for their own financial gain and use violence and fear to keep them in check."
Chief Superintendent Andy Mariner, commander for the north policing area, which covers Chelmsford, added:
"This is an example of the work we’re doing every day to target drug dealers who cause harm in our communities.
"Despite the challenges of COVID-19, we have never stopped catching criminals and keeping people safe.
"I’d urge anyone with concerns about drug dealing in their communities to please tell us as your information really does help with our investigations."
Anybody with concerns about drug dealing in their area, or who is worried about someone who is involved in drugs gangs, is asked to contact police online, where they can also use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm, or by calling 101.
Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111.