More than 150 officers from the Metropolitan Police swung into action on Saturday, 7 August, targeting county lines drug dealing and gang activity across Croydon, Sutton, and Bromley in South London.
The extensive operation involved specialist teams including the Roads and Transport Policing Command, Dog Support Unit, and Special Constabulary working together to tackle violent crime hotspots linked to drug trafficking.
Officers stopped a total of 367 vehicles using a combination of unmarked cars, intelligence-led tactics, and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to identify suspects involved in drug supply.
The crackdown focused on main roads entering and leaving South London, areas known for gang violence and drug distribution. Drug detection dogs from the Met’s Taskforce assisted in searching vehicles throughout the day, resulting in the seizure of 26 vehicles.
In one notable find, officers recovered £30,000 worth of stolen power tools from a single car, highlighting the broader criminal activities connected to the gangs.
Specially trained officers were also present to protect vulnerable young people, who are often exploited by gangs to transport drugs across the country.
The operation was supported by Surrey Police, HM Revenue and Customs, and the Home Office, demonstrating a multi-agency effort to reduce crime and violence linked to county lines.
Chief Superintendent Dave Stringer, police commander for Croydon, Sutton, and Bromley, said: “I am incredibly proud of what we achieved thanks to the Met’s hard-working officers. It was remarkable to see such a wide range of specialist skills from different units brought together to tackle county lines and violence.”
He added: “The Met is committed to taking down criminals, seizing their cash, drugs, and weapons, and choking their routes through the city’s roads and transport.”
“This intense day of action is just a snapshot of the 365 days of work going on to keep London safe. We will keep targeting those who bring misery to our communities.”
Chief Superintendent Stringer also urged the public to assist in the fight against gang crime: “To beat gang crime, everyone must play their part. If you have any information – no matter how small – pass it on. It can make a real difference.”
Members of the public are reminded that in an emergency or if a crime is in progress, they should call 999 immediately. For non-urgent reports, the number is 101. To report information anonymously, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Originally published by UKNIP.
