olice launched a series of raids across north west London shops, cafes and homes arresting 12 people in a bid to tackle drug dealing and robberies in the area.
Officers in Harlesden also launched eight raids around Harlesden High Street with one suspect filmed desperately running across a rooftop in a bid to escape the officers who smashed down his door on Wednesday.
Scotland Yard said 11 men and one woman, were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and possession with intent to supply Class A, B and C drugs.
Quantities of drugs and stolen property were recovered during the raids.
One person has been charged with robbery and possession of crack cocaine and another charged with possession of Class B drugs and recalled to prison.
Inspector Andy Le Geyt said: “These raids are far from the end of the operation. As part of our commitment to making Harlesden as safe as possible for local people, officers have begun the process of applying for closure orders for these eight properties, including four commercial and four residential premises.
“Currently four closure orders have been granted while four have been adjourned for 14 days, but the closure notice remains in place in the meantime.”
Inspector Le Geyt added: “This operation began with intelligence about crime and criminals in the area and local people are, of course, extremely well placed to provide us with the information we need to protect the community. Please do come forward with this vital information.”
Nine of those arrested have been bailed until dates in late October pending further enquiries and one has been released without further action.
