Large Scale Swoop on Violent Criminals in West London | ||||
39 arrests for a range of crimes including rape, GBH and drug dealing
A major operation focused on the boroughs of Ealing and Hounslow has resulted in 39 arrests and major seizures of knives, cash and drugs. ‘Operation Perigree’ was conducted over a two day period (25 and 26 August) and involved a number of officers, including West Area Basic Command Unit local officers, West Area Gangs Unit, West Area Violence Suppression Unit and Territorial Support Group (TSG). A range of methods was used including search warrants, weapons sweeps in hot spot areas as well as using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to target vehicles believed to be linked to violent crime. There was also a significant engagement element to the Operation which saw officers conduct youth engagement activities, including: telephone discussions with eight youths, offering assistance and signposting to relevant support; and engagement visits with seven high-risk youths, where officers highlighted various diversionary opportunities and charities. There will also be interactive knife crime awareness and intervention sessions in the coming weeks. The arrests were for offences including burglary, robbery, rape, possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs, GBH, and ABH. In all more than £2,000 cash seized as well as 50 wraps of what is believed to be heroin and crack cocaine plus three knives were recovered. Detective Inspector Andy Thrower, who led the operation, said: “This was a proactive operation which not only focussed on enforcement, but also prevention and engagement; elements which are all integral in reducing violent crime. “We’ve had fantastic results, with 39 individuals arrested, as well as a quantity of drugs and cash being recovered. We have also discovered important intelligence which may lead to further arrests, and is currently being investigated by detectives. “I hope this showcases to the local community that we will not tolerate dangerous criminality and will bring those involved to justice. “I would like to thank all those who took part in the Operation, who showed their unwavering dedication to reducing violent crime, arresting dangerous individuals, and making the area a safer place to live.” The police say that communities have a vital role to play in tackling violent crime and they urge anyone who may have information to tell them. They need information about crime or those who carry a weapon, or those that exploit people for gain or revenge, while putting young people’s lives at risk. For those not comfortable in speaking to the police, Crimestoppers is a totally independent charity. They do not ask your name or trace your call. If people are worried that a family member or friend might be involved in criminality or vulnerable to people who may be violent, visit KnifeFree or the NSPCC websites for help and advice.
August 28, 2020 |