Kent Police had been made aware of a number of issues and allegations connected to the suspected distribution of Class A drugs from a property in Upper Grosvenor Road.
On November 8, officers went into the housing association-owned property and removed a number of people who had no right to be living there.
The flat has now been secured against any unauthorised entry. A man was also arrested after quantities of cannabis were seized.
Tunbridge Wells Inspector Chris Mayers said: “This flat was being illegally occupied by a number of people who took advantage of a genuine tenant and who was also vulnerable.
“Residents who live in the road, including families with young children, have endured repeated anti-social behaviour, often involving groups of people visiting the property, at all hours. We are also aware of concerns over the potential use and distribution of drugs.”
The tactic of drug dealers taking over someone else’s residence is known as ‘cuckooing’ after the bird that invades the nests of other birds so that they brood on its egg and feed the chick when it hatches.
It has been seen locally when gangs come down from London in order to set up a dealing business in towns in the Home Counties.
Mr Mayers added: “We are grateful for the support shown by our partner agencies and residents, and with their help we will continue to actively pursue positive action on other properties, if they are associated with ongoing incidents of anti-social behaviour or drug activity.”
