Multiple people have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a firearms incident where gunshots were heard.

Police carried out a number of raids in Maidstone, West Malling, Gravesend and Swanley at about 5am, resulting in the arrest of nine people.

As well as the arrests, cash, cocaine, cannabis and several high-value watches were seized during the searches.

On Tuesday, September 5, members of the public called police to report the sound of gunshots.

Armed officers attended and searched the area of St Aidan’s Way, but no suspects or weapons were located at the time.

No victims came forward reporting any injuries, but a car was found damaged with what looked like possible bullet holes.

Detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate launched an investigation, seized the vehicle, spoke to witnesses, and reviewed all available CCTV.

As a result , several suspects were quickly identified and work has been ongoing since, which included the planning of these simultaneous warrants.

A 28-year-old man was arrested at a property in Lower Road, Chinner, Oxfordshire, on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.

While a 24-year-old man was arrested at a property in Westmorland Green, Maidstone, on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.

Both men were also detained on suspicion of attempted murder, along with seven other people, in connection with the reported firearms incident.

They include a 29-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman arrested in Allnut Mill Close, Tovil, Maidstone. As well as a 37-year-old man arrested in Mungo Park Road, Gravesend.

A 46-year-old man was also arrested in Spitfire Road, West Malling, while another man, 41, was arrested in Sutton Road, Maidstone.

Finally, a 39-year-old man was arrested in Fens Way, Swanley, as well as a 33-year-old man in Wilsons Lane, East Farleigh.

Update: They have all been bailed until between January 2 and 4.

Detectives are now in a position to make a public appeal for witnesses and would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious on Tuesday, September 5, at around 9.15pm or has any information that may be valuable to their enquiries.

Anyone with details should call 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/164278/23.