Met Police Launch Crackdown on London Gun Crime
London’s Met Police have gone all out to tackle gun violence with targeted patrols and community-backed weapon sweeps. The week-long operation, running from 21 to 27 November, hit the city’s most affected areas hard.
Arms and Drugs Seized in Big Haul
Officers uncovered a stash of dangerous weapons and drugs, including:
- A live 2.2 Berringer hand pistol
- A live .38 Rimfire calibre revolver loaded with four rounds
- Four suspected blank firearms
- One stun gun
- Class A drugs
- Class B drugs, including imported skunk cannabis worth around £20,000
The blitz led to 17 arrests. So far, 12 suspects have been charged, recalled to prison, or appeared in court.
Conspiracy to Murder Charges Amid Wave of Shootings
Two men, one in his 20s and the other in his 50s, face serious charges – conspiracy to murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. These relate to four shootings in west London. Both have been remanded in custody.
Community Action and Police Commitment
Fourteen weapons sweeps involved community groups and schools to raise awareness about the risks of firearms. Detective Superintendent Tim Mustoe said:
“Tackling violence is a priority for the Met and our response to gun crime is strong. We have deployed extra officers in the small pockets of London where we’ve seen shootings take place. Officers are developing fast time intelligence and executing warrants to arrest those involved in gun crime.”
He added that most shootings are linked to gangs and organised crime, meaning innocent people’s risk remains low. But the impact on victims and families is always devastating.
“We have been relentless in identifying, arresting and charging criminals who use firearms to target rivals and run criminal enterprises,” Mustoe said. “We can reduce gun crime far quicker if members of the public provide us with information about those responsible, where firearms are stored and who uses them.”
For those reluctant to talk directly to police, Mustoe urged contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers, where tips are 100 per cent anonymous. “You could save a life,” he warned.
What the Met Wants
- Disrupt and arrest the most dangerous criminals.
- Protect the public, especially the vulnerable.
This crackdown is just one part of a long game to slash London’s alarming gun crime rates. The Met says it will keep pressing hard until the streets are safer for all.
