Drug Dealer Jailed for Hijacking Vulnerable Person’s Home in Westcliff
A man has been locked up for nearly three years after forcibly taking over the home of a vulnerable resident in Westcliff.
Drug Base Raided in Westborough Road
Police suspected the property was being used by a Class A drug dealer supplying Southend and surrounding areas. Acting on these suspicions, officers stormed the Westborough Road property on January 18.
Inside the living room, they found 25-year-old Terrence Tshuma, clad in black and wearing a balaclava. He was caught red-handed with digital scales and cling film — classic drug-dealing gear. When Tshuma stood up, a large red kitchen knife slipped from a blanket covering him, raising alarm.
Tshuma, from Aylestone Lane, Wigston, Leicestershire, was promptly arrested. Searches uncovered two large wraps of Class A drugs, a black Samsung phone, and roughly £120 in cash. He was charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and possession of criminal property.
34 Months Behind Bars
Admitting his guilt, Tshuma was sentenced to 34 months imprisonment at Southend Crown Court on March 3.
Protecting the Vulnerable
The rightful occupant of the home has been safeguarded and is now receiving ongoing support.
“While enforcement forms a large part of the role of our teams, we also ensure that the people who need help and support get it. Quite often, the people who are being exploited by gangs will feel they have no way out of their situation but there is always help available. If you are vulnerable and if you are being exploited, we have dedicated officers in place who can help you. You will be treated as a victim and you will be offered support.” — Sergeant Rob Maile, Op Raptor South
Sgt Maile added, “Taking Tshuma off the streets is something to celebrate, but helping the person whose home was taken over and lifting them out of that life is even more satisfying.”
Southend’s Serious Violence Unit continues daily efforts to reduce drug-fuelled crime and protect the most vulnerable in the community.
