FIVE men have been charged as part of a drug supply probe after police carried out a series of raids across Colchester and Mersea.

Officers investigating the sale of Class A drugs across Colchester executed five warrants early on Thursday, July 21.

A number of people were arrested as part of Essex Police's Operation Orochi.

As part of the operation, officers seized cash, drugs and mobile phones.

Stephen Ford, 31, of Monkwick Avenue, Colchester, has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drug, possession of an offensive weapon in a private place and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Luke Welham, 26, of Vince Close, West Mersea, has been charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Jake Goodspeed, 25, of Monkwick Avenue, has been charged with conspiracy to supply a Class A drug, possession with intent to supply a Class B drug and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Kian Rulten, 26, of Morant Road, Colchester, has been charged with conspiracy to supply a Class A drug and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Jack Tyrer, 24, of The Commons, Colchester, conspiracy to supply a Class A and Class B drug.

They appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court today.

Detective Superintendent Gary Biddle, head of Essex Police's serious violence unit, said: “Tackling the sale of drugs is a priority for us because we know the impact it has on our communities.

“We are making Essex an even safer place to work and live this summer, and there are more officers than ever before investigating and preventing crime.

“If you or anyone you know wants to report something to us, we will listen and we will act, just as we have in this case.”

Anyone with information about illicit drug supply can submit a report online at essex.police.uk.

Alternatively, call 101 or make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.