Guns, knives and tens of thousands of pounds of drugs were seized by police in 15 simultaneous dawn raids.

Warrants were executed at four addresses in Kent including Mill Place, Dartford, and Gala Avenue in Swanley this morning.

The cross-county operation was led by the Metropolitan Police and took place in the early hours with the assistance of officers from the South East Basic Command Unit.

More than 200 officers were involved at a total of 15 addresses across London and Kent.

Warrants were also issued at homes in Fairwater Avenue, Bexley and Sevenoaks Road, Farnborough.

Large amounts of high-value property and cash were seized as well as eight kilos of cannabis and one kilo of Class A drugs.

Multiple firearms were also confiscated as was a number of lock and hunting knives.

Eight men - aged between 19 and 40 years old - have been arrested for numerous offences including conspiracy to supply Class B drugs, possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, cultivation of cannabis and possession of criminal property.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy from SE BCU, said: “This operation demonstrates the Met’s commitment to target and take robust action against those involved in drug related violence."

He urged anyone with information about individuals engaged in drug dealing to contact police, either via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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