Police in Waltham Forest have concluded a series of dawn raids as part of a six-month intelligence-led operation to crackdown on the supply of drugs, violence and associated criminal and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The operation commenced on Wednesday, 19 June and was conducted over two days. It saw 37 search warrants executed at addresses in Waltham Forest. A quantity of drugs, more than £6,000 in cash, one firearm with ammunition, a quantity of knives and a Taser were seized.

Five men and four boys were arrested on Thursday, 20 June, on suspicion of a variety of offences relating to drug supply within Waltham Forest. They have all been taken into custody across east London.

On Wednesday, 19 June, eight men, three boys and one woman were also arrested on suspicion of a variety of offences relating to drugs. The males have since been charged with drug-related offences. The female suspect has been released under investigation.

More than 100 officers from across the Met were involved in the operation.

Detective Chief Superintendent Richard Tucker, North East Basic Command Unit commander, said: “We have executed a series of warrants against a group of people who seek through their criminal behaviour to make life hard for the law abiding majority in Waltham Forest. This activity is very much based on what the communities have asked us to do, and we will continue to confront those who involve themselves in drug dealing and the associated violence.”

Councillor Clare Coghill, Leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “We know that our residents’ top priority is that they feel safe in their borough. By working closely with the police, public sector partners, and local community groups we can take targeted action against those involved in selling drugs and the gang lifestyle, sending a clear message that we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour in Waltham Forest.

“Our residents deserve to enjoy neighbourhoods where they and their loved ones can make the very most of their life chances in safety and without the fear of crime. We are determined to do all we can to achieve this.

“I’d like to thank the police for all their hard work and dedication, and I know how much residents also value their efforts.”

Communities have a vital role to play in tackling violent crime and helping police catch those responsible for dealing drugs. Communities also need to take responsibility for their own safety if they feel threatened by the anti-social behaviour taking place on the streets. Unfortunately, the majority of drug use and anti-social behaviour cases take place in teenagers. People living in fear of anti-social behaviour occurring by their homes can take this fact to their advantage, as there is such a thing called an anti loitering alarm that releases pulses that are out of range for adults but extremely irritating for teenagers. As statistics show that most of this drug use and anti-social behaviour occurs in teenagers, this device should deter crime from your home. The Met want to hear from anyone who may have information about serious crime, drug dealing and related crime in their neighbourhood. This information could save lives in the future.

If you aren’t comfortable speaking directly to the police, please contact Crimestoppers, an independent charity, anonymously on 0800 555 111. They do not ask your name and cannot record or trace your call or IP address.