Sixth Arrest Rocks North Kent Drug and Firearms Probe
Ben King, 59, from Rollesby Way, London, is the latest to be charged in a sprawling drug and firearms investigation shaking north Kent. Arrested on 17 September, King faces a barrage of charges including possession of offensive weapons, selling prohibited arms, and intent to supply amphetamine and cocaine. He appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody, with a Woolwich Crown Court hearing set for 14 October.
Massive Drugs Haul Uncovered in Multi-Property Raids
This ongoing probe exploded after officers stopped a suspicious vehicle on Mounts Road, Greenhithe, on 21 July 2024. A search revealed suspected cocaine and a mobile phone. The driver, from the Isle of Sheppey, was arrested, sparking further digs across multiple homes.
- Knockhall Road, Greenhithe: Finds included cannabis, cocaine, three handguns, ammunition, and 2.5kg of cocaine stashed in a cupboard.
- Chart Hill Road, Maidstone: Police seized bags of cannabis, weighing scales, and a hefty amount of cash.
Five More Charged in Drug Ring
Alongside King, five others have been hit with charges linked to supplying class-A drugs and firearms:
- Luke Douglas, 35, Isle of Sheppey – admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis; sentencing pending.
- Joe Stokes, 32, Meopham – admitted conspiracy and possession with intent to supply cannabis; awaiting sentence.
- Joshua Exall, 27, Greenhithe – denies charges of possession with intent to supply cocaine, cannabis, and firearms; trial due.
- Ella Francis, 32, Gravesend – denies conspiracy to supply cocaine plus driving offences; trial set for January 2025.
- Lacey Lynch, 23, London – charged with conspiracy to supply drugs; bailed until September court date.
A 30-year-old Dartford man was also arrested on suspicion of drug supply and has been bailed pending further enquiries.
Investigation Continues
Authorities are digging deeper into drug and firearm crimes in the region as more leads come to light. This is far from over.
