Police arrested six people and seized drugs after they swooped on several homes in the Witham area.

The arrests were made as part of a crackdown - called Operation Baird - on the supply and possession of controlled drugs.

Police made the raids on Friday afternoon at addresses in Cressing Road, the Humber Road Estate, the Howbridge Estate and the nearby village of Silver End.

All six people were later released on bail after being quizzed by police at Witham and Braintree stations.

Sgt Andrew Simpson said: "All I can say at this stage is that we have seized tablets and a quantity of cannabis resin.

"They have been sent away for analysis and we will continue our inquiries depending on the outcome."

The value of the seized drugs has not been revealed.

Operation Baird also saw five people arrested for failing to appear in court and non-payment of fines. They appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Saturday morning.

Insp Alan Cotgrove, of Witham police, said: "We are very pleased with the results so far. This proactive approach will be continuing in the area."

He warned that further arrests would follow and urged people with outstanding warrants to contact their nearest police station.

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