A gun and cash was found as police swooped on homes of suspected gang members in Waltham Forest.

The operation focused on criminals operating in High Road, Leytonstone, with eleven residential addresses targeted.

A total two women and eleven men were arrested on suspicion of drug offences, including conspiracy to supply crack cocaine and heroin.

At the address in Capworth Street police recovered what is believed to be a deactivated, readily convertible 9mm Pistol along and approximately £3,000 in cash.

A further £1,000 in cash was seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act from the address in Orange Grove, Walthamstow.

Other addresses in Walthamstow targeted included homes in High Street, Wigmore Place, Arkley Road, Brunel Road.

A property in Capworth Street, Leyton, was searched, as well as homes in Robinson Close, Leytonstone, and St. Egbert's Way in Chingford.

Properties in Lewisham and Enfield were also targeted.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Jo Chinn, acting Borough Commander of Waltham Forest, said: “Today we’ve arrested a number of gang members who we believe are supplying crack cocaine and heroin across Waltham Forest.

“Drug dealing and the violence that comes with it blights communities, creating a culture of fear for those living and working in the area.

“Taking drug dealers and drugs off our streets should go a long way to improving the lives of everyone living and working in the area.”

Neighbourhood Policing Teams were on hand to inform, reassure and update members of the local community about the police activity.

Anyone with information about gang crime or those involved in gang crime are urged to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.