Sixteen people have been arrested in a series of early-morning raids targeting suspected street-level drug dealers in Kent today.

More than 100 Kent Police officers have been involved in an operation in the east of the county this morning.

They have also seized crack cocaine, heroin, cannabis and stolen property after a three-month operation.

Those who have been arrested are due to be questioned at a police station.

Kent Police Chief Constable Ian Learmonth said: "This operation is the second phase of enforcement in the east of Kent.

"The first part resulted in the arrest and subsequent charge of a number of people who were wanted for burglary and stolen property was also recovered.

"This enforcement will not end today. Officers are continuing to work within communities, listening to people and gaining a valuable intelligence to help them combat drug supply."

Anyone with information about the illegal use of drugs is asked to phone Kent Police on 101 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.