Police arrested 10 people in Kent as part of a huge crackdown on organised crime in the run-up to Christmas.

Officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate swooped in dawn raids on properties across both counties this morning.

Arrests in Kent stretched from Broadstairs and Canterbury to Herne Bay and Wye.

At 4.30am eight police teams executed simultaneous warrants at properties in Thanet, Canterbury and Maidstone.

A further six warrants were executed a few hours later.

In Essex two arrests were made, In Epping and Romford.

Those questioned in Kent on suspicion of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs are:

• A 29-year-old man from Canterbury
• A 27-year-old man from Herne Bay
• A 26-year-old man from Broadstairs
• A 29-year-old man from Wye
• A 29-year-old man from Chartham
• A 30-year-old man from Broadstairs
• A 51-year-old woman from Broadstairs
• A 25-year-old man from Broadstairs
• A 40-year-old man from Herne Bay
• A 29-year-old woman from Herne Bay who has been bailed

Assistant Chief Constable Gary Beautridge, head of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "Today’s activity by the directorate was supported by divisional officers in both Kent and Essex and sent out a strong and clear message to those who think it is acceptable to commit crime in our counties.

"In the lead-up to the festive period, we will be focussing all our efforts on ensuring our communities remain safe."

In addition to the arrests, property and other assets have been seized including a small amount of drugs and cash.