Week long operation in Kent to crack down on organised criminality

Kent Police is continuing its efforts to disrupt organised criminality across the county through a week of targeted action focused on town centres.

Between 15 and 19 June 2026, officers from local policing teams carried out visits to scores of high street businesses to ensure owners were complying with the law and to identify any premises where criminal activity was suspected to be taking place.

Premises including vape shops, convenience stores, barbers and car washes were visited as part of the operation. Officers were supported by partner agencies including Immigration Enforcement, Trading Standards and local authority teams, demonstrating a coordinated approach to tackling criminality and safeguarding communities.

The enforcement activity resulted in two arrests. A 31-year-old Polish national, wanted by Derbyshire Police on suspicion of going equipped to steal, was arrested near Sevenoaks. A second man, a Vietnamese national, was detained in Dartford on suspicion of modern slavery offences.

Officers also conducted proactive checks on fast-food delivery drivers across the county. In Dartford, a car and an e-bike were seized, while a moped was seized in Maidstone after its rider was found to be disqualified from driving and uninsured. During the operation, officers issued three Traffic Offence Reports and a Community Resolution Order.

In Maidstone, officers recovered a quantity of nitrous oxide canisters and an axe from a property. Enquiries into the circumstances of these seizures remain ongoing.

Detective Chief Inspector Ricky Bassan said:
‘Our town centres should be safe places for residents, workers and visitors, and we are determined to ensure organised crime groups cannot exploit legitimate businesses to facilitate illegal activity.
‘These joint inspections provide an opportunity to engage with business owners, ensure they understand their legal responsibilities and identify any indications of criminal exploitation or offending. Where offences are identified, officers will take immediate action, including making arrests and pursuing enforcement opportunities.
‘In some cases, information gathered during these visits will contribute to further investigations and future enforcement activity. Working closely with our partner agencies allows us to take a robust approach to tackling criminality and protecting vulnerable people.
‘We encourage anyone who has concerns about criminal activity linked to a business or premises to report it. Community intelligence is invaluable in helping us target rogue operators and support the many legitimate businesses that make a positive contribution to our towns and communities.’