Seven people were arrested in Southend as police executed warrants in a bid to "tackle drug dealing and the violence and exploitation which is linked to it". 

Police executed a warrant in Manners Way at around 8.30pm yesterday, before arresting a 45-year-old man and a 53-year-old man on suspicion of possession of class A drugs with intent to supply.

Officers seized the drugs found inside the address.

A vehicle was then stopped in Eastern Avenue at around 8.50pm and police arrested three men.

A 22-year-old from Basildon and an 18-year-old from Romford were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs and a possession of offensive weapon and a 24-year-old from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of possession of drugs and an offensive weapon and driving unfit through drugs.

Phones, cash, drugs and a knife found in the vehicle were seized.

A 24-year-old from Southend was arrested in Cheltenham Road, Southend, at around 11.05pm on suspicion of possession of class A and B drugs.

All six men remain in custody for questioning.

Police also arrested a 16-year-old from Leigh-on-Sea at 9.40pm in Little Wheatleys, Rayleigh, on suspicion of driving unfit through drink and drugs, possession with intent to supply class A and taking a motor vehicle without the owners consent.

He has been released under investigation.

Three cars were also seized as part of the operation.