Officers from the Violence Suppression Unit (VSU) in Croydon found a 17-year-old carrying a 16 inch machete after they stopped and searched him
Officers from the Violence Suppression Unit (VSU) in Croydon found a 17-year-old carrying a 16 inch machete after they stopped and searched him.
At 19:00hrs on Monday, 27 July the officers were carrying out a weapons sweep on Drummond Road when a group of young men changed their direction of travel after seeing them. The group then split up so officers approached some them and engaged in conversation.
However, the 17-year-old ran away, but was detained for stop and search after a brief chase. They found him to be in possession of a large machete which was immediately seized.
He was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs. He remains in police custody.
A section 60 was in place at the time of the search, following several knife-related incidents in the area over the last two days.
Inspector Kathy Morteo said: “This stop shows the effectiveness and value of stop and search and how it can keep our communities safe. We may not have found the blade if it wasn’t for the powers we have under stop and search
“Part of the investigation will also address how we, along with local partners, can support him and look after his welfare.”
The VSUs are dedicated teams established to spearhead suppression activity at a local and neighbourhood level.
We have dedicated resources working to prevent, deter and tackle violence in all its forms, day and night. Our officers continue to work around the clock to identify and pursue offenders, bring perpetrators to justice, support victims, engage and reassure the public, and keep our communities safe.
But we cannot do this alone. Officers need to hear from anyone who has information about crime, those who carry a weapon, or those who exploit others for gain or revenge, while putting young people’s lives at risk.
