Last week, more than 1,200 police officers launched a large-scale three-day blitz targeting violent criminals involved in drug dealing and knife crime across London and surrounding counties. The Metropolitan Police led the operation, supported by Thames Valley, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, West Midlands, and British Transport Police.
The operation focused on stopping criminals who exploit major roads and rail networks to transport illegal goods. High-tech tactics, including the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and intelligence gathering, helped officers identify vehicles connected to gang violence, drug trafficking, and weapon offences.
Key transport routes such as the M25, A406, M1, and A40 were closely monitored during the blitz, covering London and adjacent motorways.
The results of the operation included:
- 179 arrests for offences including knife possession, drug offences, burglary, and robbery
- 30 knives and other weapons recovered
- 40 drug seizures
- 66 vehicles confiscated
- £5,700 in cash seized
The crackdown was led by the Met’s Violent Crime Taskforce, with support from Met Intelligence, the Dog Support Unit, Roads & Transport Policing Command, the National Police Air Service, and other units. Local violence suppression teams in Camden, Islington, Enfield, Haringey, Harrow, Barnet, Brent, Croydon, Lewisham, and Newham also played a vital role.
Superintendent Emma Gulczynski, who oversaw the cross-force effort, said, “This operation was a joint effort between seven police forces, sharing intelligence and strengthening relationships to target those behind gang, drug, and weapon violence.”
She added, “Tackling violent crime is a priority for the Met, and this operation saw officers from Birmingham to the south coast working closely to smash criminal networks using transport links.”
Arrests by police force were as follows:
- Metropolitan Police: 100 arrests
- British Transport Police: 10 arrests
- Surrey Police: 21 arrests
- Hertfordshire Constabulary: 7 arrests
- Thames Valley Police: 18 arrests
- Sussex Police: 7 arrests
- West Midlands Police: 16 arrests
Police also warned that some criminals exploit children and vulnerable individuals to further their illegal activities. Authorities remain committed to protecting those at risk and providing necessary support.
If you witness drug dealing or violent crime, you are urged to contact the police or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Calls are free, confidential, and untraceable.
Originally published by UKNIP.
