Two men have been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into the supply of illicit drugs. 

Officers executed a warrant in a unit in Whitebridge Farm Industrial Estate, London Road, Wickford, yesterday, Wednesday 24 January.

During searches of the property, officers found a quantity of what they believe to be Class A, B and C drugs as well as a significant amount of cash, a number of weapons, including a tonfa and an asp, and firearms. 

Cash was recovered in the raid

 Two men, aged 40 and 49, were arrested on suspicion of drug offences, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of a firearm. 

 They have been released on conditional bail until 20 March.  

 Inspector Steve Parry, of the Basildon Community Policing Team, said: "We are working determinedly across our district to tackle the supply of illicit drugs, which we know is often linked to other criminality. 

 "The community policing team is here to help and protect our community – sometimes that will be by patrolling our areas, on others, it will mean gathering intelligence which results in a significant investigation being launched, warrants being executed and seizures made." 

 Sgt Chris Lucas, who is leading the investigation, added: "The proactive work in developing information and intelligence this investigation has required cannot be underestimated and it would not be possible without the tireless work of officers in the team and I would like to publicly thank them.

 "We all know this is by no means a 9-5 job, but we wouldn't have it any other way."