POLICE have seized cash, weapons and guns after raiding an industrial unit in south Essex. 

Essex Police executed a warrant in a unit in Whitebridge Farm Industrial Estate, London Road, Wickford, on Wednesday.

During searches of the property, officers found a quantity of what they believe to be Class A, B and C drugs.

This was alongside a “significant amount of cash, a number of weapons, including a tonfa and an asp, and firearms”.

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Officers say that all items have been seized as part of the investigation, which is being led by the Basildon community policing team.

Insp Steve Parry, of the Basildon Community Policing Team, said: “We are working determinedly across our district to tackle the supply of illicit drugs, which we know is often linked to other criminality.

“The community policing team is here to help and protect our community – sometimes that will be by patrolling our areas, on others, it will mean gathering intelligence which results in a significant investigation being launched, warrants being executed, and seizures made.”

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Two men, aged 40 and 49, were arrested on suspicion of drug offences, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of a firearm.

Both of the men have been released on conditional bail until March 20.

Sgt Chris Lucas, who is leading the Essex Police investigation, thanked all the officers involved.

He added: “The proactive work in developing information and intelligence this investigation has required cannot be underestimated.

“It would not be possible without the tireless work of officers in the team, and I would like to publicly thank them.

“We all know this is by no means a 9-5 job, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.”