A man who sold drugs near a school in east London has been jailed.
Teachers saw Taz Uddin, 50, acting suspiciously in the area and contacted police in June.
Officers retrieved CCTV from the Tower Hamlets school which they trawled to build up a pattern of his criminality.
A stash of more than 100 wraps of heroin and cocaine - worth £1,100 - was hidden in a cigarette box and seized nearby.
A raid on Uddin’s Southwark address uncovered additional drugs, paraphernalia and clothing matching outfits seen on the school footage.
At Snaresbrook Crown Court on Tuesday, Uddin, of Brook Drive, Kennington, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and having Class B drugs. He was sentenced to seven years in jail.
The Metropolitan Police said its local teams worked with the school to retrieve drugs and ensure the pupils were safeguarded.
Detective Inspector Sam Bennett, who led the investigation, said: “I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of drugs on individuals, families and communities.
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“As officers it is our duty to not only intercept the flow of drugs but to address the root causes that lead people into this destructive cycle.
“Uddin is a prime example that highlights the impact that intelligence-led targeted policing can have.
“By building trust within the community we can create a safer environment where people feel supported in seeking help.”
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: “In line with A New Met for London, the Met is intensifying its efforts to address the concerns of the communities it serves.
“London residents have expressed their concerns about the drug trade, and related violence and anti-social behaviour.
“In response to these concerns, dedicated local officers are actively engaged in round the clock operations aimed at arresting those involved in drug related activities, thereby contributing to enhancing the safety and security of London.”
