Eight men have been arrested following a series of warrants targetting drug dealers in Bexley and Greenwich.

The men aged between 20 and 30, were arrested on the evening of February 7, on suspicion of supplying Class A and Class B drugs.

They have now all been taken to a south London police station where they remain in custody.

The suspects were arrested at the following addresses:

-Francis Street, Woolwich

-The Glade, Charlton

-Middle Park Avenue, Eltham

-Lingfield Crescent, Falconwood

-Westthorne Avenue, Mottingham

-Coldharbour Estate, Mottingham

Detective Inspector Tom Williams, who led the operation, said: “Drug related crime has a hugely negative impact on local communities and we are committed to using all legislation available to identify, apprehend and bring those responsible to justice.

“Last night’s activity was not just about taking drug dealers off the street and more importantly it was about protecting vulnerable people who are exploited due to their age, debt, addiction, mental health problems or other issues that make them an easy target. We won’t tolerate it."

He said that drug crime also leads to violence, with tensions between rival drug gangs leading to young people being drawn into either committing violent acts or ending up as a victim.

To report suspected drug crime or alert us to someone you think might be vulnerable, you can call 101. Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.