TWELVE people have been charged with drug offences following police raids to crackdown on class A dealers.

More than 100 officers swooped on 14 addresses in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas in the early hours of Thursday morning, and made a total of 22 arrests in connection with the supply and use of drugs.

Twelve people from Tunbridge Wells, Pembury and Maidstone were charged with various drug offences. Two men and three women were released on police bail, and a woman was cautioned for possession of a class C drug.

Two people are currently in police custody, and two others were released without charge.

Class A drugs include Ecstasy, LSD, heroin, cocaine and crack, and supplying the, carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Police who carried out the operation returned to areas targeted to offer advice, support and guidance to residents.

Sherwood, Showfields and Ramslye estates were among the areas visited by neighbourhood officers, who explained the powers the police have in respect of drug related anti-social behaviour and gave residents the opportunity to provide information about nuisance premises.

British Transport Police are supporting the operation by carrying out routine drugs operations at local rail stations over the coming weeks, with passive drugs dogs used to indicate the possible presence of illegal drugs.

Tunbridge Wells District Chief Inspector Russell Nyman said: "The start of the operation on Thursday was very encouraging. The feedback local people have been giving neighbourhood officers is that they are delighted by what they saw yesterday.

"The work being undertaken by officers now is going to build on what was started yesterday.

"Help is being offered to those arrested who have a drug dependency and help is being offered to residents who are telling us about drug-related anti-social behaviour in their community."

Anyone who wishes to speak to police about drug-related crime can contact the Tunbridge Wells Neighbourhood Police Team on 01892 502104 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.