Nine arrested in National Crime Agency probe into 'international drugs ring'

NINE people, including Albanians, Iranians, Ghanaians and British nationals were arrested this morning during a series of raids on a suspected crime network believed to have imported at least two tonnes of cocaine into the country.

National Crime Agency (NCA) officers raided addresses in the Feltham, Bromley and Peckham areas of Greater London, and a house in Derby, early this morning.

NCA Deputy Director of Investigations, Chris Farrimond, said: “Today’s arrests are part of an investigation into what we suspect is a nationally significant drug trafficking organization."

The NCA said the six men and three woman arrested include UK, Ghanaian, Iranian and Albanian nationals.

CUFFED: A man is led away in handcuffs by NCA officers during today's operation (NCA)

An NCA spokesman said: "In addition to several digital devices, items including a drugs press, and quantities of heroin and cocaine were seized.

"With the assistance of HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), one suspect was produced from prison, where he is serving a sentence for unrelated matters.

"All are now being questioned by NCA officers on suspicion of drug trafficking and money laundering offences."

Mr Farrimond added: “The cocaine trade brings violence and exploitation to local areas right across the UK, as well as a trail of environmental and social harm internationally.

“The NCA works tirelessly to protect the UK public from the criminals profiting from the class A drugs trade, cooperating with partners at home and abroad to do so."