Suspected drug dealers were given a rude awakening during a series of dawn raids.

Police used steel battering rams to smash open their doors in several parts of Dover.

They executed 36 search warrants and arrested 36 people between Tuesday and this morning.

Crack cocaine, heroin, cannabis, cash, and knives were seized in as part of the operation against county lines and local drug dealing.

Police have also been working with partner agencies to identify vulnerable individuals, safeguard them and offer support.

Community policing teams, officers from Dover District Council, and the Dover Community Safety Partnership are now working in several neighbourhoods.

They are talking to residents about their concerns, gather intelligence and prevent other potential dealers from filling the void created by the enforcement action.

Ch Supt Nigel Brooks, divisional commander for the East Division, said: "Our message is simple; if you are involved in drug dealing, it is not a matter of if you will be arrested - but when.

"Our communities in Dover do not deserve to be exposed to criminality and anti-social behaviour linked to drugs.

"This action is just one part of our ongoing commitment to improve the quality of life for residents and tackle the misery caused by illegal drugs. Our efforts do not stop today.

"Though we have been successful in arresting a number of suspected dealers we will be targeting anyone who attempts to fill their shoes.

"We welcome the input of local communities and if anyone has any information about those who are involved in dealing drugs report it to us or Crimestoppers."

Ten people have been charged following the raids on Tuesday.

Eight were charged with conspiring to supply crack cocaine and heroin and have been remanded in custody.

Seven are from Dover: David Murray, 26 of Templar Street; Jordan Wills, 24, of Coombe Valley Road: Abdul Jalloh, 33, of Folkestone Road: John Butterworth, 27, of London Road: Archie Foad, 19, of Victoria Park: Richard Harvey, 40, of Winnipeg Close, and Sarah Manser, 24, of Clarendon Street.

The eighth is Sarita Riply, 22, of William Pitt Avenue, Deal.

Meanwhile, Lewis Carney, 31, of Maison Dieu Place, Dover, has been charged with being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin.

He was also remanded in custody.

A 17-year-old boy was also charged with conspiring to supply crack cocaine and heroin and was bailed.

All were due to appear at Medway Magistrates Court later today.

A further 21 people are being held in custody.

To report drug-related activity, call police on 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress. You can also email: stopdrugs@kent.police.uk or use the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111 or by completing an online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org

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