Southend police crackdown on gang activity with raids

Officers executed two warrants early this morning, in Great Wakering and Shoebury. 

During searches of both properties, officers seized substances which are believe to be Class A drugs, as well as cash and weapons. 

Two men, aged 22 and 27, were arrested and remain in custody for questioning on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.

Violence - Two arrests made after raids in Southend (Image: Essex Police)

Chief Insp Dave Browning, the new Southend district commander, said: “We are committed to a sustained and significant operation in Southend to stamp out incidents of serious violence and to identifying those involved in activities which are unfortunately inextricably linked to that behaviour. 

“This morning, two men were arrested as part of this ongoing operation – and I will be blunt about it, they won’t be the last.

“As I have said before, to the people who we believe to be involved in violence and in activities connected to violence in our city, you will be identified, and you will be arrested.”

This comes after a series of violent incidents in Southend that saw thugs fighting with knives in the streets. 

Raids - Doors busted down by officers (Image: Essex Police)

The incidents have sent shockwaves through the city in recent months. 

And just weeks ago Essex Police’s Dave Browning warned those involved that they will take action and stated that officers “will bust down doors to find you”.  

A specific “taskforce” was created to find those involved and to keep tabs on the individuals already arrested.

Ch Insp Browning added: “Our operation to stop these violence incidents from happening our streets is progressing at pace and with the support of our key partners.

“As a united group, we won’t tolerate criminal behaviour in Southend.”