Police Carry Out "Significant" Drugs Raid in Market
Kilo of cannabis, cash and drug paraphernalia seized
Hammersmith & Fulham Police have carried out a significant raid in Shepherd's Bush Market.
Police say that on Wednesday November2, the intelligence led joint operation saw officers from Hammersmith & Fulham's Drugs Squad, Shepherd's Bush Safer Neighbourhoods Team and Territorial Support Group execute a search warrant at Shepherd's Bush Market to disrupt drug dealing.
The officers descended upon various locations within the market where drugs were being stored and openly supplied.
During the search of the market stalls police recovered a kilo of herbal cannabis and £2,000 in cash. Drugs paraphernalia in the form of digital scales, bags and other packaging were also seized.
Seven men aged between 35 and 52 were arrested, including five from Shepherd's Bush and two from Hammersmith.
Detective Sergeant Simon Rogers from Hammersmith & Fulham's Drugs Squad said: " This operation highlights the Drug Squads commitment to removing drug dealers from the streets of Hammersmith & Fulham.
"Shepherd's Bush Market is a breeding ground for drug dealing with storage units, market stalls, containers, cafes and restaurants all hidden in dark alleyways and narrow corridors with inadequate CCTV.
" The dealers ‘ply their trade’ from business premises which are often a front for their criminal activities. They are organized, they employ spotters 24/7 and have strategic stash locations within the market which makes policing very difficult.
" Yesterday’s operation was well planned and executed, and the results speak for themselves.
" We will continue to work with local SNT’S and Partner Agencies in a bid to remove the dealers from the streets of Shepherd's Bush."
Anyone who may have information relating to drugs should call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
November 4, 2011
