Forest Gate streets “locked down” in crack-down on drug dealers

Police ‘locked down’ part of Romford Road, Forest Gate last night in a major crack-down on street drug dealing.

For people all in their teens or early 20s were arrested after officers swooped on known street dealers in heroin and crack cocaine.

Newham police were supported by officers from specialist units including dogs and the Air Support Unit, and the council’s enforcement team.

The intelligence-led raids were part of Target - the Metropolitan Police Service’s renewed drive to tackle crime against people and property in London.

A police spokesman said part of Romford Road around the Sprowston Road area was temporarily blocked off from 9pm for the safety of the public and to preserve evidence.

Traffic was diverted away while police made arrests.

Six commercial premises in and around Romford Road, mainly food convenience stores, were also raided during the large-scale operation which involved around 120 police officers and agency staff. The premises are believed to have been concerned in the supply of drugs to individuals selling on the street.

Newham Detective Chief Inspector Kevin Baldwin, who led the raids, said the operation was one of the most significant Newham has seen for a number of years. “A lot of time, preparation and hard work by my officers led to its success.”