Armed officers and police sniffer dogs swooped on a Halstead home in a class A drugs raid.

Up to 25 policemen targeted the house in Colchester Road at about 3pm last Friday and arrested three people on suspicion of dealing class As.

A section of the road was closed off for a time and officers remained guarding the property while investigations were carried out.

An Essex Police spokesman said the raid was carried out following concerns from members of the public about drug dealing in the district.

Braintree district commander Chief Insp Richard Melton said: “Drug dealing will not be tolerated and anyone involved with such dangerous substances will be taken off the streets and put behind bars.

“We will successfully tackle this crime through partnership policing.

“The neighbourhood police teams across the district will act on concerns and information from residents and retailers.

“My officers are keen to hear from people so they can play a part in improving the quality of life for those living and plying their trade.”

A 48-year-old woman and 41-year-old man, both from Halstead, and a 21 year-old man from Manor Park, east London were all arrested on suspicion of possessing a Class A drug with intent to supply.

They were bailed until January 15.