TWO Southend men are now behind bars following a 15-month covert Metropolitan Police operation into an organised crime group’s involvement in the supply of multiple kilos of Class A drugs and firearms.

Martyn Savill, 45, of Kingston Avenue, Shoebury, was jailed for five years and four months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs.

Steven Boreham, 52, of Chestnut Grove, Southend, was also sent to prison for five years and four months but for pleading guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

It comes prior to the arrest and conviction of seven key players of an organised crime group which travelled across London, the home counties and Scotland, transporting drugs, firearms and cash using a fleet of vehicles containing sophisticated hides.

In total, 22 people have now been convicted and sentenced to a combined total of over 160 years.

Detective Inspector Nikki Owen, from the Met’s specialist crime command proactive team, who led the investigation which started in March 2020, said: “Officers worked hard over a protracted period to ensure that this criminal gang was stopped.

“I am incredibly proud of their efforts to bring these individuals to justice. London is undoubtedly safer because of the teamwork, dedication and commitment of the Met.

“Alongside significant seizures of class A and B drugs, firearms, cash and assets, the investigation team identified and safeguarded a number of vulnerable people who had been exploited by the gang.

“In all, 22 people have now been convicted and sentenced to a combined total of over 160 years.

“I hope that this result offers some reassurance to communities that the Met is determined to robustly deal with high harm offenders, reduce crime and restore trust and confidence.”