Terror Raids and Busts in Orpington: Sussex and Met Police Strike Hard
Sussex Police joined forces with the Metropolitan Police in a major early morning raid in Orpington, Bromley. The crack operation unfolded at 2.45am on Wednesday, September 9, targeting suspected criminals linked to a string of offences across Sussex and beyond.
Massive Firearms and Drug Crackdown
The raids, executed under the Firearms Act 1968 and the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, followed months of meticulous work by the Met and Sussex’s Rother prevention team. Dozens of officers—including Counter Terrorism Specialist Firearms Units, the Territorial Support Group, Dog Support, and specialist search teams—swarmed the Star Lane location with over 30 vehicles in tow.
Seven Arrested in Major Cross-County Sting
The massive swoop netted seven suspects on charges including possession with intent to supply drugs, handling stolen goods, and burglary. Amongst the haul, officers recovered numerous stolen items originating from the Rother district.
Inspector Praises Forces’ Joint Effort
“This was a significant operation following many months of hard work by the Met Police and our officers here in Sussex,” said Inspector Jonathan Hartley from the Rother prevention team. “This shows we will always target those we suspect of committing crimes in our district, wherever they reside, and will work with other forces to address any cross-border criminality and find those responsible for it.”
He added, “I’m very grateful to the Met for their support in tackling cross-border crime.” The searches remain ongoing as officers follow up on the findings.
