A sixth person has been charged as part of an investigation into drug and firearm offences.

Ben King, 59, of Rollesby Way, London, was arrested on 17 September and has since been charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a private place, selling or transferring a prohibited weapon or ammunition and possession with intent to supply amphetamine.

He was also charged with possession with intent to supply cocaine and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property. He appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 18 September where he was remanded in custody and he is due to appear at Woolwich Crown Court on 14 October.

Mr King was charged as part of an investigation which started after patrolling officers stopped a vehicle in Mounts Road, Greenhithe, on 21 July 2024 after it was seen being driven without a front number plate or insurance.

Following a search of the vehicle, a bag of white powder believed to be cocaine was found on the front seat, along with a phone. A man from the Isle of Sheppey, who was driving the vehicle, was arrested.

Officers then conducted a search of a property in Knockhall Road, Greenhithe, where they found various drugs including cannabis and cocaine. Two mobile phones were also found.

A further search of a storage cupboard inside the property led to the discovery of approximately 2.5kg of cocaine, cannabis and three handguns along with ammunition.

A search of a property in Chart Hill Road, Maidstone, found numerous bags of cannabis, weighing scales and a large amount of cash.

Further charges

As part of the investigation officers have also charged the following.

Luke Douglas, 35, from the Isle of Sheppey was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis.

Joe Stokes, 32, from Carters Hill Lane, Meopham, was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine, conspiracy to supply cannabis and possession with intent to supply cannabis.

They both appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on 20 August where they admitted the charges and await sentencing on a date to be determined.

Joshua Exall, 27, from Knockhall Road, Greenhithe, was charged with possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis, possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition.

He appeared at the same court on the same date but denied the charges.
He was remanded and is due to stand trial alongside Ella Francis, 32, of High Street, Gravesend, who was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

She denied the charges when she appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on 13 September and also awaits trial which is set for 20 January 2025.

Lacey Lynch, 23, from Colwell Road, London was charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis. She was bailed to appear at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on 20 September 2024.

A 30-year-old man from Dartford was arrested on suspicion of drug supply and has been bailed pending further enquiries.