FIVE people have been charged in connection to the supply of Class A drugs in Southend.

Essex Police has confirmed five charges after carrying out an operation in the city last Thursday, October 10.

During the operation, a number of people were arrested on suspicion of drug offences.

Subsequently now five people have been charged.

Ylber Sulaj, 34, of Ness Road, Shoebury is charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to supply and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Kristjan Sulaj, 26, of Shortstown, Bedford, is charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Pavlin Zefi, 26, of Peacock Avenue, Wakefield, is charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and possession with intent to supply a Class B drug.

Anton Zefi, 32, of Robertson Road, London, E16, is charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and possession with intent to supply a Class B drug.

Prenge Lalaj, 32, of no fixed abode, is charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Chief Inspector Dave Browning, Southend district commander, said: “The supply of any illicit drugs is unfortunately inextricably linked with serious violence, and we have officers working determinedly to tackle it. 

“These are significant charges as we seek to disrupt and dismantle drug gangs which seek to operate in Southend and which are also linked to incidents of serious violence.” 

All are due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today, October 12.