Twelve people have been arrested and eight buildings closed as officers cracked down on drug dealing and robbery.

Metropolitan Police officers raided eight commercial properties and homes in Harlesden on August 23.

In total 11 men and one woman were arrested on suspicion of offences including handling stolen goods and possession with intent to supply Class A, B and C drugs.

Quantities of drugs and stolen property were recovered during the raids, Scotland Yard said.

One person has been charged with robbery and possession of crack cocaine.

Another person has been charged with possession of Class B drugs and recalled to prison.

He has been released under investigation in respect of alleged handling stolen goods.

Nine of those arrested have been bailed until dates in late October pending further enquiries and one has been released without further action.

Insp Andy Le Geyt of the North West BCU Harlesden Town Centre Team said: “These raids are far from the end of the operation. As part of our commitment to making Harlesden as safe as possible for local people, officers have begun the process of applying for closure orders for these eight properties, including four commercial and four residential premises.

“Currently four closure orders have been granted while four have been adjourned for 14 days, but the closure notice remains in place in the meantime.

“I urge anyone with information about those involved in criminality in the Harlesden area to speak with me or my team on 020 8733 3835, email us, call police on 101 or to remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers.”

He said peole can contact the team by emailing:  NWMailbox.HarlesdenTownCentreTeam@met.police.uk

Insp Le Geyt added: “This operation began with intelligence about crime and criminals in the area and local people are, of course, extremely well placed to provide us with the information we need to protect the community.

"Please do come forward with this vital information.”