This morning saw eight members of a Lewisham based criminal network arrested across London, Kent and Hampshire during police dawn raids carried out under code name Operation Pibera.

The criminal network was believed to have trafficked young girls and boys from south-east London to transport Class A drugs to Hampshire and Kent.

A total of 11 warrants were executed from 5am including three in Honor Oak Road, Annesley Road and Maiden House in Lewisham and eight people were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs, inciting supply of Class A drugs, child trafficking and money laundering.

The major intelligence-led operation is part of the Met’s ongoing crackdown on gang crime and was made possible through a partnership with Lewisham Council and support from the Ending Gang and Youth Violence frontline team, led by the Home Office.

Among the eight arrested from across the UK was an 18-year-old man from Lewisham.

So far a large quantity of crack cocaine and what is believed to be a press used to package drugs have been recovered with £1,500 seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act by 250 officers from the raids.

Detective Superintendent Tim Champion of the Trident Gang Crime Command said: "Today’s activity is the result of Trident’s continued work with borough and UK colleagues to target the most 'high risk' offenders to keep communities, young people in London safe.

"Today’s operation should serve as a clear message to those who think they are above the law. If you use young people to support your criminal activity - we will focus our efforts on you. You will be caught, you will be arrested and you will be placed before the courts.