Operation Shield

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Wandsworth police report significant blows to local drug dealers

Operation Shield began in April 2005 to crackdown on drugs in Wandsworth and police launched a series of intelligence led operations to bring drug dealers to court and seize their supply of drugs. These initiatives resulted in the closure of cannabis factories, crack houses and the seizure of Class A drugs, firearms and drug money.

The Wandsworth Drugs & Firearms intelligence unit collates information through various sources to identify criminal activities on the borough. They survey the activities of suspects, recording evidence of drug deals and who they come into contact with.

When the time is right they launch an operation to arrest the suspects and seize any evidence which can be used against them at court.

Operation Shield has already reaped 6.72kg of cocaine, 649g of crack cocaine, 1,244g of heroin, 336 ecstasy tablets and 75,945g of cannabis. Along with nine firearms, thirty imitation firearms, 153 rounds of live ammunition and five CS spray canisters. There has been approximately 371 people arrested in connection with Operation Shield.

Community intelligence is an essential tool for police in their continual efforts to tackle drugs and organised crime. By acting as an extra pair of eyes and ears on the street you can help police identify crime and begin to investigate and take action against those involved in illegal activities. A total of £182, 227 has been seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

Borough Commander Joe Royle said: “Operation Shield is built on the strong foundations we have made with our local partners in making Wandsworth a safer borough. I would like to thank all my officers and staff for their dedication and hard work in tackling drugs and associated crime.”

Addicts often turn to theft, burglary and prostitution to pay for their habit and dealers bring violence and gun crime to the streets. Our Safer Neighbourhood teams actively engage with the public and community groups to bring to light any issues of crime, which affect your lives, and the streets you live on.

Councillor Lister said: "Wandsworth police know they can rely on the council for its full support in the fight against drug crime. Where we get evidence of drug dealers in council properties we will use our powers to remove them.

"Operation Shield has had some great successes in the last year. When the police nail these criminals the whole community celebrates."

The public should be aware of the service Crimestoppers offers and the fact it is separate from the police and the government. They are an independent UK-wide charity working to stop crime and provide an anonymous service that works for you.

Detective Sergeant Phil Tomlinson, from the Drugs and Firearms desk, said: “I would encourage anyone in Wandsworth with information concerning drug dealers to contact Crimestoppers immediately.

“Calling Crimestoppers is a guaranteed way of making sure your information gets straight to the right people and it is only with the support of Wandsworth residents that we will successfully drive the dealers out.”

September 19, 2006