Police have arrested 27 people and seized weapons, drugs and cash in a series of raids as part of a crackdown on violent crime.

Early-morning search warrants were executed at 18 properties this morning, resulting in the seizure of 15 "bladed weapons" alongside more than 300 wraps of Class A drugs and £3,500 in cash.

The enforcement action was carried out by Kent Police officers alongside detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate.

Many of those arrested are believed to have links to county lines, organised offenders who travel to Kent to commit crime.

Assistant chief constable, Nicola Faulconbridge, said: "Knife crime is ruining lives across the country and we are committed to targeting those who think carrying a blade or any other weapon is acceptable in Kent.

"We will not tolerate the possession of any weapon on our streets and our work will continue to tackle the issue of violent crime.

"I would encourage the public to support our efforts by contacting us if they know someone who carries a knife. Doing so could help save a life."

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