A home in Leytonstone was raided as part of a police crackdown on gang crime and drug supply.

The property, in Sansom Road, was one of 20 stormed by officers following an investigation into criminal activity in Newham this morning (Thursday, November 9).

Other raids took place in East Ham, Manor Park, Forest Gate, Plaistow, Wimbledon and Romford and 17 people were arrested in total.

The suspects, 15 men and two women aged between 18 and 43 years old, were arrested for a range of drug supply offences. One individual was also arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm.

In addition to the arrests, a number of items were seized at the properties, including a handgun, a significant quantity of Class A and B drugs, and cash.

More than 200 officers from, the Met’s Trident Central Gangs Unit, as well as local borough officers, took part in the operation.

Detective Inspector Jim McKee, of the Trident Central Gangs Unit, said: “This proactive operation is part of Trident’s ongoing work to disrupt drug-dealing operations in London, which blight communities across the capital. 

“Much of the violence seen on the streets of Newham can be traced back to disputes between rival gangs involved in the distribution of Class A drugs. 

“Today’s operation demonstrates Trident’s tireless efforts to identify those responsible for gang violence and bring them to justice.”