Nine people were arrested for dealing drugs on the streets as park of a police crack down.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Officers leaving their van before a raid in Barking town centreOfficers leaving their van before a raid in Barking town centre (Image: Archant)

Officers carried out a number of search warrants in Barking town centre yesterday evening.

During the raids, by safer neighbourhood teams (SNTs), nine people were arrested for being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs.

A quantity of cannabis was discovered and one suspect had concealed what appeared to be heroin inside their body.

Following the operation public notices were put up announcing that the council has authorised a dispersal order covering an area in the town centre.

This means police have the power to disperse groups of two or more people if they believe there is a need to do so.

The SNTs were helped on the day by the council funded safer estates police team and the Territorial Support Group (TSG).

Sergeant Richard Morgan, of Abbey policing team, said: “Those who live and travel through Barking and Dagenham have the right to do so without witnessing drug deals or being affected by the anti-social behaviour that is generated by drug dealers and users.

“We will continue to work closely with our borough partners to ensure that those who would spoil the local area for residents and businesses are placed before the courts.”

Cllr Jeannette Alexander, cabinet member for crime, justice and communities said: “We will do everything it takes to work with the Police and the local community in partnership to ensure this scourge is removed from our streets.