A POLICE raid on a Chingford pub led to nine arrests.
Officers stormed the Royston Arms in Chingford Mount Road on Friday, following a number of complaints from neighbours about drug taking and anti-social behaviour in the area.
It is believed the venue has been used as a meeting point for suspected cocaine dealing, according to police, which has also encroached into nearby Westward Road.
During the raid, five people were arrested on suspicion of possessing cocaine, while four were held on suspicion of possessing cannabis.
A 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of both possession and intent to supply a class A drug.
Police also found what was believed to be cocaine discarded under the pub's tables.
The Guardian understands all nine arrested were taken into custody at east London police stations.
Two were later bailed until September 9, pending further inquiries.
Five accepted cautions and four were issued warnings.
A regular, who asked not to be named, witnessed 20 police officers enter the pub at about 8.45pm on Friday. He said they immediately screamed at customers to put their hands on the table.
The 42-year-old added: “Two coppers went to each table, and about half-a-dozen went through to the beer garden.
“Some were saying to put our hands on the table and others were saying to put our hands on our heads. I chose the table.
“I could see through the window, more police were surrounding the building.
“They searched people and then closed the pub for the night. But they only took a few people away.”
Police have since spoken with the management at the Royston Arms and will be working with them to prevent further drug related activity in the pub.
PC James Grimsey, of the Territorial Support Group, said: “Friday’s activity was a direct response to complaints from local residents unhappy about the illegal and anti-social behaviour taking place on their doorstep.
“I hope it sends a clear message to those individuals involved in this type of crime that they will be targeted by police and made to pay the consequences of their actions.”
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