Seventeen people have been arrested by police in Tower Hamlets as part of the anti-drugs dealing Operation Continuum.

Police said 13 males and one female were arrested on suspicion of drugs offences and other three men were arrested on suspicion of breaching the peace, possession with intent to supply cannabis and class A drugs during the operation on May 27.

During the action, police found what are considered to be class A drugs, cannabis, and approximately £ 20,000 in cash.

Detective Inspector Sean Lyons, of the Metropolitan Police said: “Even during the Coronavirus public health crisis, criminals seem to think that they can continue to peddle drugs in our communities. Operation Continuum remains a very successful investigation, and we will keep making arrests as long as people believe they can get away with breaking the law. ”

Operation Continuum was launched in December 2017 in response to ongoing reports of drug dealing, drug use and associated criminality. It is a partnership operation between Tower Hamlets Council, the Metropolitan Police and local housing associations. It also provides support to vulnerable people such as the homeless and people with substance misuse issues, with operational teams on the ground to offer outreach support.

All Operation Continuum warrants so far this year have been supported by officers from the local Basic Command Unit (BCU), Taskforce Command, local Gangs Taskforce and the Met’s Dog Unit.

John Biggs, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said: “Although we have seen a reduction in crime during lockdown, some individuals are intent on breaking the law and continue to blight our community with drug dealing and taking. We will continue to work with police to conduct these operations and disrupt local drug markets.”

Police are appealing to the public to report any information about drug dealing by dialling 101 or report it online. People can anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.