Over 40 suspects arrested and 74 illegal e-bikes seized in a fierce week-long Met blitz on Kilburn crime. The Metropolitan Police ramped up the pressure in north west London’s Kilburn with a bold operation cracking down on illegal e-bikes, scooters, weapons, and stolen goods.
Massive Week-Long Police Blitz
More than 50 Met officers flooded Kilburn High Road, carrying out extra patrols, raids on addresses, and licensing checks on shops suspected of flogging illegal gear. Traffic stops at a special two-wheeler checkpoint resulted in three arrests alone. This operation cracked down on the illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters, and mopeds — vehicles linked to crime and anti-social behaviour, sparking concerns among residents and businesses.
Huge Haul of Stolen Phones and Weapons
- Over 1,000 suspected stolen phones were seized from one Kilburn shop — double the amount police initially expected. Four men were arrested on suspicion of selling stolen goods and drug supply.
- Two machetes over 50cm long were recovered from a local barbershop. Two men spotted by an off-duty cop entering the store were promptly arrested.
- Officers stopped a van linked to drug dealing and confiscated £3,000 worth of nitrous oxide canisters.
Operation Results: Crime Slashed, Streets Safer
- 45 arrests made for offences including possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, offensive weapons, and shoplifting.
- 74 illegal e-bikes and other vehicles seized.
- Eight weapons, including machetes and knives, were removed from the streets.
- 1,161 stolen phones were recovered during the raids.
Inspector Yu Zhang, who led the crackdown, said: “This operation has taken drugs, weapons, and dangerous illegal e-bikes off Kilburn’s streets. We know these crimes matter to our communities and we’re taking firm action. This week-long operation will disrupt criminal networks here and make the area safer for everyone. Our efforts build on strong work across North West London, where neighbourhood crime has already fallen by 6.4% in the past year.”
Met’s Commitment: Weapons Off the Streets
This crackdown is part of the Met’s wider pledge to tackle serious crime and protect the public. In 2025 alone, police seized 2,894 knives and 3,750 weapons — a staggering 75% increase from the year before.
