Wandsworth officers conducted a number of warrants across the borough and made arrests following a series of coordinated operations marking the start of a major new crack down on gang crime by the Metropolitan Police Service.

The significant operation, which was being spearheaded by a newly formed Trident Gang Crime Command, saw the beginning of a step change in how the MPS tackles gang crime in the capital and forms a key part of the Met Commissioner's total war on crime.

Safer Neighbourhood teams on Wandsworth carried out weapon sweeps across the borough.  15 warrants were executed at addresses across the borough which resulted in 11 arrests.  The offences for which people were arrested included, drug crimes, possession with intent to supply drugs, possession of imitation firearm, possession of ammunition and possession of drugs.

Borough Commander Chief Superintendent David Chinchen said:
"The violent crime committed by a small minority of people in Wandsworth associated with gangs will not be tolerated. Those involved in such activities can expect to feel the full effect of sustained enforcement by my officers on behalf of the law abiding community who are rightly concerned. Wandsworth will benefit from the additional resources that the Metropolitan Police Service are targeting towards this issue. Whilst you will have seen a range of enforcement activity over the past few days, our approach is also to disuade young people from getting involved and offer support to those who genuinely want to get out of the lifestyle and aspire to better things"

MPS Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe said:
"This is a step change in how we tackle gang crime in London. It will allow us to identify and relentlessly pursue the most harmful gangs and gang members. It will help us identify young people on the periphery of gangs and work with partners to divert them away.”

On Friday 17th February between 10.30am-11.30am the Commissioner will be hosting his latest live webchat.  The webchat provides a unique opportunity for Londoners to ask the Commissioner about the Met's new focus on tackling gangs in London and the recent launch of a dedicated police unit.

How to take part in the webchat:
Register in advance at coveritlive.com and receive a reminder before the webchat begins and join the webchat here between 10.30 -11.30am on Friday 17 February. You can also join the discussion on Twitter using the #AskMetBoss hashtag and for regular updates about policing in London. You can follow the Met Police on Twitter @metpoliceuk or join us on Facebook metpoliceuk.

February 15, 2012