Nine Arrested in Major Class A Drug Bust Across South East
Officers from the Met’s Flying Squad joined forces with Sussex police to smash a large-scale Class A drug supply ring. Nine suspects – eight men aged 21 to 47 and one 26-year-old woman – were hauled in during coordinated raids across London, Kent, and Sussex on Tuesday, 22 September.
Massive Haul of Cocaine and Cash Seized
Police targeted multiple addresses, resulting in arrests for conspiracy to supply cocaine and money laundering offences under the Proceeds of Crime Act. So far, officers have seized about 10 kilos of Class A drugs and £60,000 in cash.
The suspects are now in custody suites across London and Sussex, while searches continue at various locations in the region.
Operation Eternal Takes Down Encrypted Crime Networks
This crackdown is part of the Met’s Operation Eternal, aimed at tackling organised crime groups using encrypted devices like EncroChat to smuggle drugs and weapons.
Detective Inspector Gail Lilley, Met Flying Squad: “Yesterday’s arrests show our relentless effort to put a stop to those dumping Class A drugs on our streets. These criminals show zero concern for the violence and chaos their trade causes. Organised Criminal Networks using encrypted tech are now on high alert because police forces UK-wide are working together to take them down and seize their profits.”
Detective Inspector Julie Wakeford, Surrey and Sussex Serious Organised Crime Unit: “This joint operation shows how forces can work together to disrupt crime groups effectively. The arrests will immediately hit the supply of Class A drugs in Brighton and Shoreham. We’re committed to ensuring this disruption is lasting.”
Warrants Executed Across Multiple Locations
- Abbey Drive, Dartford
- Commercial property, Belvedere, DA17
- Dowells Street, SE10
- St Mary’s Road, Wrotham, Kent
- Cold Blow Crescent, Bexley
- Sheppey Close, Erith
- First Avenue, Bexleyheath
- Wichling Close, Orpington
- Greenways Crescent, Shoreham
- Foredown Drive, Portslade
- Glenfalls Avenue, Brighton
- May Road, Brighton
Police continue to comb these locations for further evidence as the investigation unfolds. The message is clear: crime networks exploiting encrypted devices are no longer safe.
