London police raids target gang members

More than 140 suspected thugs, thieves and gang members were arrested by police in London today.

Raids took place across the British capital in the biggest pre-planned operation of its kind aimed at those behind youth violence in the city.

Senior officers have spent weeks drawing up plans to target those responsible for knife crime and other serious youth violence.

The move was a new phase in Operation Blunt Two, a year-long strategy to cut the number of victims of attacks.

Arrests were made for offences including robbery, serious assault, violent disorder, aggravated burglary and drugs offences.

A gun was found in one Westminster raid and three dangerous dogs were seized in Lambeth, Tower Hamlets and Ealing.

Officers have also used metal detector arches at transport hubs, stop and search operations and searched open spaces for weapons caches.

Commander Mark Simmons, who is responsible for Operation Blunt Two, said: “We know that street gangs often play a part in violent attacks on young people.

“Individuals affiliated to gangs are cowardly, acting in packs and using weapons to target and intimidate others.

“Through intelligence we have identified the individuals we believe are causing the greatest amount harm.

“We have targeted a number of gangs intent upon causing misery."

Since Operation Blunt Two was launched, 5,748 knives have been recovered, 300,000 stop and searches conducted and 10,800 people arrested for knife-related offences.