POLICE have swooped in on drug dealers in Hayes in a major operation.

The raid this afternoon in Hayes town centre invloved 50 police officers in a bid to crack down on open street dealing.

Police and Hillingdon council have now pledged to monitor the area in an ongoing operation.

Borough Commander for Hillingdon, Chief Superintendent Carl Bussey said: "There has been a 10 per cent reduction of crime in the borough that is not being reflected in the way the people of Hayes town centre feel.

"The fear of crime in the area of Hayes Town centre is disproportionate to the actual number of crimes taking place because of those dealers and users hanging around the area."

He added: "This has been methodically planned operation targeting those that we know have been involved in the supply of drugs on a regular basis."

Police believe there are around 15 people regularly involved in the supply of class A drugs which bring at least 60 regular users into the area.

Mr Bussey added: "This will not be tolerated and we will continue to work with the local authority, community and other partners against those who chose to deal drugs in Hillingdon."

Councillor Douglas Mills cabinet member for community safety and partnership at Hillingdon Council said: "Community safety is one of the council's priorities and a significant amount of work has already been undertaken by the community safety partnership to reduce crime and improve the Hayes area.

"This started with the week of action earlier this year, which shows our commitment to reducing crime and improving the local neighbourhood."

He added: "Today's events are the culmination of several months of partnership work, with significant support from the local community.

"The council will now be working closely with the local community, local safer neighbourhoods team and others to continue making improvements to the Hayes and Botwell areas."

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