Operation Eternal: Met Police Smash Organised Crime with 420+ Jailed
The Metropolitan Police’s biggest ever crackdown on organised crime, Operation Eternal, has already jailed over 420 criminals and seized three tonnes of illegal drugs. The operation zeroes in on crooks using encrypted EncroChat devices to coordinate drug deals, money laundering and violence across London.
Massive Hauls and Major Breakthroughs
- 942 arrests – that’s more than one every two days
- 784 charged with serious offences including drug supply, firearms offences, and money laundering
- 426 convicted, serving a combined total of 3,722 years behind bars (an average of 8.7 years per person)
- Cash seizures exceeding £19 million
- Over three tonnes of Class A and B drugs taken off the streets
- 49 guns and 755 rounds of ammunition recovered
Operation Eternal has disrupted deadly organised crime groups supplying arms and drugs to London gangs, slashing violence on the city’s streets.
Behind the Scenes of the Met’s Biggest Ever Crime Fight
Commander Paul Brogden, head of the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, hailed the operation as the most significant in the force’s history. He said:
“This operation targets those causing the most harm to our communities – the dangerous criminals supplying drugs to street gangs. Thanks to the commitment and skill of our officers and staff, we are making a real difference.”
He revealed the operation is far from over. Many investigations continue behind closed doors, with police determined to track down every last criminal linked to EncroChat.
Powerful Partnerships Crack Down on Crime
Operation Eternal began in March 2020 after French police cracked EncroChat, sharing data with the Met. The operation also involves the National Crime Agency (NCA), European law enforcers, and the Crown Prosecution Service.
Craig Turner, NCA Deputy Director of Investigations, praised the operation linked to the NCA’s own Operation Venetic, describing it as a “watershed moment” in fighting serious organised crime:
“Transforming intelligence into evidence led to thousands of arrests. This operation has set a new benchmark in tackling crime networks.”
With millions seized, hundreds locked up and gangs crippled, Operation Eternal shows the Met means business in cleaning up London’s streets.
