A multi-agency crackdown on drug supply around Altab Ali Park in Whitechapel has led to the arrest of four individuals earlier this month, the Metropolitan Police has confirmed.
The arrests form part of a long-running operation led by officers from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command and Tower Hamlets Neighbourhood Policing Teams, aimed at disrupting organised criminal activity and reclaiming the park as a safe, family-friendly space.
Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall, neighbourhood policing lead for Tower Hamlets, said the action followed months of strategic planning and community intelligence gathering.
“Drug supply is often linked to other offences such as violent crime and causes misery within our communities,” she said. “By taking targeted action, we aim to reduce offending and tackle drug supply to improve the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors to this culturally significant area.”
The enforcement action is part of a wider three-phase regeneration strategy for Altab Ali Park, spearheaded by Tower Hamlets Council, in partnership with local police and community organisations. The plan includes:
- Clearing the park of criminal and anti-social activity
- Maintaining security and police presence to deter reoffending
- Building community resilience through events, partnerships, and local initiatives
As part of the rejuvenation effort, two new food vendors have recently been introduced to encourage more positive use of the space by residents and workers. Additionally, support services are being offered to individuals under Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs), including access to mental health care, housing, and substance misuse treatment.
On June 5, the Met Police and Tower Hamlets Council co-hosted a Community Safety Day in the park to showcase the ongoing efforts and progress in tackling organised crime in the area. Residents, businesses, and local groups came together to discuss safety concerns and build community ties.
Councillor Abu Talha Chowdhury, cabinet member for public protection and integrated enforcement, welcomed the initiative:
“Altab Ali Park is a cherished part of our borough’s heritage, and we’re proud to see it becoming a safer, more vibrant space for everyone. This initiative shows what’s possible when the council, police, and community work together to tackle crime and build lasting change.”
The Met Police say that while challenges remain, visible improvements are being seen across Whitechapel, and they remain committed to continuing the work in close collaboration with local partners and residents.
Anyone with information about drug-related crime in the area is encouraged to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
