Nearly 20 people were arrested in a wave of early morning raids across north and south London, with drugs and cash seized linked to drug dealing and violence in Camden High Street, near Camden Lock Market.

Among the addresses raided was Hampstead’s Willow Road, which overlooks the Heath.

The 18 men, aged between 18 and 37, were arrested for a range of offences, including possession and supply of Class A and Class B drugs. No charges have been made.

All suspects were taken to a Central London police station where they remain in custody. The operation was part of Project Atlas, an operation targeting violent offenders and gangs in Camden and Islington.

A total of 16 search warrants were executed in Camden, Islington and Lambeth.

In Camden, properties were raided in Torriano Avenue, Wilkin Street, Willow Road, Fordwych Road, Pratt Street, Westcroft Way, Clarence Gardens, Mead Road, Marlston Munster Square and Crowndale Road.

In Islington, police also searched addresses in York Way, Sturmer Way, Carleton Road, and Barnesbury Estate.

South of the Thames, police issued warrants to search properties in Foxley Square and Rodenhurst Road in Lambeth.

Police are still searching the locations, however, officers have seized a significant quantity of Class A and B drugs and cash.

This morning’s operation was supported by officers from the Met’s Territorial Support Group and Dog Support Unit.

Det Ch Supt Iain Raphael, Central North’s borough commander, said: “Today’s operation forms part of our ongoing commitment to tackle drug dealing and the associated violence in Camden and Islington. This activity forms part of our wider drugs strategy, and links to the work we are carrying out in partnership with Camden Council under the Youth Safety Taskforce.

“We are doing a huge amount to tackle the drugs trade and associated violence in Camden and Islington, and we will be relentless in the pursuit of this objective in order to keep our communities safe.

“Together with our partners, we are working tirelessly to make Camden a safe place to live, work and visit. We want visitors to feel safe, and we want to put the fear back into those who are intent on committing violent crime. This should send a clear message to anyone considering on committing acts of violence that we will identify you, arrest you, and bring you to justice.”

Acting Det Ch Ins Jim McKee, who leads Project Atlas, said: “These warrants are the culmination of months of hard work, and I am incredibly proud of all the officers involved for their commitment and determination in taking some of the most dangerous individuals off of the streets.

“This is the result of fantastic collaborative work between units and officers across the Met who work day and night to protect the public and bring to justice those out there intent on harming others.”

Did you witness any of the raids this morning? Contact the newsdesk on editorial@hamhigh.co.uk or call 0207 433 0119.