Gun and Drugs Haul After Police Blitz in Laindon and Westcliff
Armed officers from the Force Support Unit teamed up with Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), the Dog Section, and Police Search Team to smash a major operation this morning, Monday 23 May. They stormed multiple locations in Laindon and Westcliff, executing search warrants that led to a serious haul.
Firearm, Class A Drugs, and Thousands in Cash Seized
The searches covered two homes and a car. Police uncovered a firearm, suspected Class A drugs, huge bags of vacuum-packed cannabis buds, thousands of pounds in cash, and various drug paraphernalia.
A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing a Section 1 firearm without a certificate. Officers say their investigation continues.
“Our main priority is keeping our communities safe from harm and tackling criminal activity in all its forms,” said Detective Sergeant James Rafiq of SOCU.
Firearms Amnesty Running Until Sunday 29 May
In a bid to keep weapons off the streets, a firearms amnesty is underway until 5pm on Sunday 29 May. Anyone with unwanted or illegal firearms and ammunition can hand them in at eight police stations with no fear of prosecution.
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You can also surrender imitation firearms and air or gas-powered weapons. Those handing in items can remain anonymous.
Police will check the history of each weapon to see if it’s linked to any crimes.
Community Help Needed to Stamp Out Crime
Police urge the public to come forward with information that could help land criminals. “We couldn’t do these warrants without your help,” said officers.
If you suspect criminal activity or exploitation of vulnerable people, report it. And if it’s an emergency, always call 999 immediately.
