uknip247 
Two teenagers from south London are among 60 individuals who have been arrested in an intensified anti-robbery operation conducted by the British Transport Police (BTP) across the London rail network.
The operation, known as Operation Invert, has seen a heightened presence of law enforcement officers on the rail network, resulting in the apprehension of numerous suspects involved in robbery and weapon possession.
Among those arrested are two 16-year-olds from Croydon and Bromley, both of whom have been charged with robbery. However, their identities cannot be disclosed due to legal reasons.
Operation Invert, which commenced on December 31 and continued until February 3, aimed at curbing robbery and knife crime incidents occurring on trains and at stations. The initiative involved weekly proactive patrols at various stations throughout London.
During the operation, a total of 64 individuals were apprehended, with 35 of them arrested on suspicion of robbery. Additionally, law enforcement officers seized 15 weapons from individuals carrying them on the rail network.
Superintendent John Loveless, the operational lead for Operation Invert, emphasized the BTP’s zero-tolerance approach towards robbery-related offences. He expressed satisfaction with the number of arrests made during the operation and underscored the force’s commitment to tackling robbery and weapon possession on the rail network.
Acknowledging the involvement of youth offenders in such crimes, Superintendent Loveless mentioned the exploration of further preventative measures, including Criminal Behaviour Orders and Youth Rehabilitation Orders, to deter these offences effectively.
Passengers are urged to contact 999 immediately if they witness a robbery in progress, enabling law enforcement officers to respond promptly. Furthermore, passengers are encouraged to save the British Transport Police’s number, 61016, to report any suspicious or unusual activities observed during their rail journeys.
The BTP reassures the public that the anti-robbery efforts will continue unabated, underscoring their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of passengers travelling on the London rail network.
