Cross-Border Crackdown Nets Stolen Cars and Weapons
Police forces from the Met and Kent joined forces in Operation Huntsman, a no-nonsense crackdown targeting vehicle crime hotspots. Using Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) tech, officers seized 15 vehicles and reported 16 traffic offences during the blitz.
Big Haul Includes High-End Stolen Motors and Weapons
The swoop recovered a swanky BMW, a sleek Jaguar, and even a delivery van stuffed with parcels. Arrests were made for robbery, motor vehicle theft, possession with intent to supply class A drugs, dangerous driving, and failing to stop for police. Cops also uncovered an arsenal: knives, a baseball bat, and a stun gun.
Rising Crime Spurs New Unit and Tough Operations
The operation builds on a dedicated motor vehicle crime unit launched last year by the Met’s South East Command. Residents in Bexley, Greenwich, and Lewisham called out rising keyless car thefts and catalytic converter raids, which hit record numbers—2,608 vehicle thefts last year alone.
“We’ve really listened to local concerns,” said Chief Inspector Russ Joao. “The rise in motor vehicle crime has badly impacted many residents, so we’ve taken big action over the last 12 months.”
Armed gangs have been causing chaos with bats, iron bars, machetes, and BB guns. Thieves rip off cars to sell whole or strip for parts, then rack up more crimes using the stolen rides.
Police Intensify Patrols and Community Efforts
The two-day blitz included Met local teams, Roads and Transport Policing, Violence Suppression, ANPR Interceptors, the National Police Air Service, and Kent’s Swanley team. Ward panel chairs from Sidcup and St Mary and St James were also invited to see the action firsthand.
Two detainees face minor charges; others were released on bail or under investigation. Officers promise more operations and prevention events like catalytic converter marking.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
- Always lock your car. Wing mirrors folding in usually signals a locked vehicle, so keep an eye out.
- Take all valuables with you.
- Invest in steering wheel locks, immobilisers, and tracking devices.
- Use key fob protectors (Faraday bags) to stop keyless theft.
- Consider installing driveway posts to block access.
- Check out Secured by Design for more tips.
“Our work does not stop here,” added Chief Inspector Joao. “We’re investing in precise community crime fighting by involving locals in tackling the issues that hit them hardest.”
