Sussex armed police incident: 'Significant discovery' led to arrest on A27; suspect accused of cocaine supply involvement

Officers executed a search warrant at a premises in London Road, Mountfield, near Robertsbridge, at about 10.30am on February 25.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “At the premises a large quantity of class A drugs was found, and a firearm and ammunition were also found.

All the items have been seized by police.

“Armed response officers later arrested a man on the A27 near Offington Lane, Worthing, at about 4.40pm on February 25.”

Superintendent Adam Hays added: “This was a significant discovery of class A drugs and a firearm.

“Officers from across the force quickly arrested a suspect once his location had been identified.

“A man has been charged in connection with the offences.

“This demonstrates our complete determination to take swift action to prevent and disrupt the supply of class A drugs which cause so much harm to our communities in East Sussex.

“The firearm has been seized, and we do not believe there is a wider risk to residents in the Rother area.

“We continue to encourage residents to report suspicious behaviour and drug-dealing to Sussex Police online or via CrimeStoppers anonymously.”

Police said Craig Richards, 37, of Mount Idol View, Bexhill, was charged with possession of a firearm without a certificate, possession of firearms ammunition without a certificate, acquiring or using criminal property, and being concerned in the supply of a class A drug, cocaine.

He appeared before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on February 27, and has been remanded in custody to appear before Lewes Crown Court on March 27, police added.

Information can be reported to Sussex Police online, via 101, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.