London Police Launch Major Crackdown on Gun Crime
Starting Monday, 26 July, London’s cops are stepping up the fight against violent crime with a blitz of weapons sweeps, warrants, and 24/7 patrols across all 32 boroughs. The aim? To snatch lethal guns from the capital’s most dangerous criminals and make the streets safer for everyone.
Operation Viper Leads the Charge
Detective Superintendent Nick Blackburn from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, who’s heading the week-long crackdown, said:
“Day in, day out, Met officers work tirelessly to remove dangerous weapons from the streets and protect both London’s residents and visitors. This week is no different, but we are enhancing our resources and zeroing in on violent crime. The more work we put into busting these criminals, the safer summer will be for all of us.”
The blitz kicks off with weapons sweeps targeting hotspots with rising violent crime. Alongside this will be visible and undercover patrols by the Met’s Operation Viper, backed by specialist firearms teams and the Taskforce.
Record Firearm Seizures Show Progress—but More Tips Needed
- In the first half of 2021 alone, the Met seized 248 guns, including 151 handguns, 3 machine guns, and 2 submachine guns.
- Last year, police recovered 443 firearms — up 107 from 2019’s 336.
The clampdown follows the jailing of four men sentenced to a whopping 42 years for smuggling six guns and ammo into the UK.
Blackburn added: “Our officers are excellent at finding illegal guns and taking them off the streets. While we’re making big strides, we need the public’s help to speed up progress. If you know where guns are stored or who’s using them, tell us. You don’t have to speak directly—use Crimestoppers, it’s 100% anonymous.”
How You Can Help Stop London’s Gun Crime
To report a firearm discharge or provide info on weapons, contact the police via:
- Emergency: 999
- Twitter: @MetCC
- Met Police Website
For anonymous tips, contact Crimestoppers:
- Call 0800 555 111
- Use their quick online form
You won’t be asked your name. Calls and info can’t be traced. One tip could save a life.
