Nine people have been arrested after two properties were raided in drugs busts which uncovered knives and fake guns.
Raids in Essex Street and Upper St James’s Street in Brighton on Wednesday, July 12 uncovered Class A drugs and weapons after residents reported “cuckooing” at the properties.
A total of eight men, aged between 22 and 52, and a 22-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. Four were also arrested on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm.
Sussex Police detective inspector Neil Phillips said: “Each of these arrests highlights the importance of the community reporting their concerns to us.
“The public are our eyes and ears and know better than anyone the issues affecting their neighbourhoods. If you report suspicions to us, we can take action to bring perpetrators to justice and protect vulnerable people.
“Drug supply and all associated criminality will absolutely not be tolerated in Brighton and Hove.”
A vulnerable woman at the Upper St James's Street property was also safeguarded following the raids on Wednesday, July 12. A closure order was pursued for the building.
“Cuckooing” is the practice of drug dealers using a vulnerable person’s home for operations. Practices can include violence, intimidation and exploitation.
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At Essex Street three men aged 43, 44 and 29 and a woman, 22, were arrested on suspicion of supply of Class A drugs and possession of an imitation firearm. The 43-year-old was also arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs.
The quartet, all of no fixed address, were conditionally bailed pending further enquiries.
At Upper St James's Street five men were found inside, along with Class A drugs, weapons, cash and items associated with drug supply.
Two of the men, aged 32 and 52, of no fixed address and three other men, 22, 30 and 34, from London, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. They were also released on conditional bail.
Police urged residents to report any crimes or concerns to police online or via 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.
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