Video: 'Day of action' in
Kent

Sixty-eight people have been arrested today as part of a
targeted day of action across both Kent and Essex.

The aim of the operation, spearheaded by the Kent and Essex
Serious Crime Directorate, is to tackle those criminals causing the
most harm.

A series of warrants were
executed, targeting those involved in a variety of crimes, from
burglary and other thefts, to drug supply at all levels.

The total arrests include at least 18 in Kent.

Asst Chief Constable Alan Pughsley,
who leads the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said of the
raids: "We are sending out a clear message that we will not
tolerate criminals causing harm in our communities.

"We are listening and responding to
what local residents are telling us concerns them the most, and are
tackling criminality at all levels, from those involved in burglary
and other theft related crime, those who handle stolen goods, and
those who use, deal and supply drugs which can often fuel all other
types of offending."

The day of action is the biggest of
its kind by the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate since in
was formed earlier this year.

The directorate is one of the largest
divisions in UK policing dedicated to tackling serious and
organised crime, with more than 1,100 officers and staff working
together across both counties.