38 Arrests in Day of Action

Kent Police say 38 people were arrested during raids and road checks across the county.

Cash, drugs, a motorbike and a knuckleduster were also seized as part of Operation Whirlwind which was part of a month long drive to catch criminals.

Deputy Chief Constable Alan Pughsley said: "Kent is one of the safest places in the country and we're determined, with your help and support, to keep it that way.

"Our early Christmas message for criminals is: If you're thinking of committing crime in Kent, think again, or pay the price and face the consequences."

Fifteen people were arrested in the Maidstone and Sevenoaks areas, on suspicion of offences including possession of drugs, burglary, criminal damage, theft and handling stolen goods.

Three men, aged 23, 27 and 33 were arrested in Sittingbourne on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle

Eight arrests were made in the Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge & Malling areas relating to offenders who were outstanding and criminal damage offences.

In East Kent, three men, aged 18, 21 and 25, from Ashford have been arrested on suspicion of drug offences. Items seized included drugs, cash and a knuckle duster.  Two men were arrested on suspicion of burglary in Folkestone, one man for burglary in Herne Bay, and one man for burglary in Canterbury. One 40 year old woman arrested in Herne Bay on suspicion of theft and subsequently charged. Officers arrested someone for drug offences and three people from Ramsgate were arrested as part of the Day of Action.

At a road check in Aylesford, seven fixed penalty notices were issued in relation to vehicles with defects and three prohibition orders made.

DS Darren Ryder - Op Whirlwind

DCC Alan Pughsley - Op Whirlwind