SUSPECTED drug dealers and other criminals were targeted as 21 homes were raided on Canvey and the surrounding area - leading to nine arrests.

Patrols have been increased on the island and, acting on intelligence, officers have honed in those believed to be involved in criminal activity.

The operation was led by Sgt Ben Preston, and his team, as part of the Castle Point and Rochford Local Policing Team.

A spokesman from the team said: “This proactive work has resulted in the arrest of a 33-year-old male for theft of a motor vehicle and possession of class A and class B drugs.

“A 21-year-old female was also arrested for drugs offences, both have been released under investigation whilst further investigation is carried out.

“In addition, two juveniles were dealt with at the second warrant for possession of a class B drug.”

The raids are part of ongoing Operation Thistle, which was organised to combat illegal activity and improve the lives of residents.

Sgt Preston said that the main objective of the specialised operation was to reduce the number of suspects in the area.

The team were able to execute court and police warrants.

The increased activity, and home visits, led to some suspects handing themselves in.

It was part of a summer programme of increased activity including high visibility patrols.

Officers on Canvey have been successfully carrying out arrests throughout the summer due to high visibility patrols.

A spokesman for the policing team said: “During what has been an exceptionally busy summer, our local policing teams have also been seeking outstanding offenders during our district’s summer crime reduction campaign, Operation Thistle.

“21 Warrants were executed, leading to six arrests, with a further three people handing themselves in after we have attended their address.”

If you suspect drug dealing or cultivation in your neighbourhood, you can report it anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you have intelligence and any information to pass to police you can call 101 to report crime.