Police make several arrests in two separate operations
Police have raided Shepherd’s Bush Market twice this month, following intelligence from local Community Support Officers.
In the first operation, over 50 uniformed officers swooped on the market, accompanied by drugs dogs and investigators from the Department for Work and Pensions.
Several people were searched and a total of seven were arrested, five for possession of cannabis and two for possession of cocaine. Over £2,200 in cash was seized from one of those detained.
In follow-up searches, a laptop computer, mobile phones and valuable camera equipment were also recovered and DWP investigators said they had identified several benefits offences involving market employees.
Following the raid, Inspector Bill Heasman of Shepherds Bush 24/7 Safer Neighbourhood Team said: "A very strong message was sent out today by the local 24/7 SNT. Drug use and dealing will not be tolerated and will be the subject of firm policing".
In a second operation later in the month, around 6-7 kilos of herbal cannabis was seized along with around 200 rocks of cocaine and £1,000 in cash. Police again arrested a total of seven people, two for possession and five for possession with intent to supply Class A and C drugs. Those arrested have been bailed pending further investigation.
Inspector Heasman said: “A number of key individuals and a substantial amount of drugs have been removed from the streets of Shepherd’s Bush for the wider benefit of the law abiding community".
April 29, 2008