Gun and knives as well as drug stashes found in Merton violent crime stings

A pistol and three knives were seized during a weekend-long operation targeting violent crime in south west London.

Officers from the South West Violence Suppression Unit, the local neighbourhoods team, the Dog Support Unit, and Special Constables, took part in Operation Speicher between last Friday and Sunday.

The operation focused on cracking down on violence, drug dealing and gang activity, particularly around Mitcham.

Officers used tactics such as weapons sweeps, arrest warrants, and used Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology to detect and stop individuals using the local road networks to commit crime.

Police also patrolled violence hotspots.

Their efforts saw six men, aged between 19 and 35 arrested on suspicion of numerous offences.

The offences were possession of a firearm, possession of a knife, possession with intent to supply, and driving while disqualified.

In total, officers confiscated three knives, a handgun, cocaine, and cannabis.

Sergeant Tim Williers, of the South West Violence Suppression Unit, said: “Operation Speicher has led to some great results, with dangerous weapons being taken off the streets, which could have been used to seriously harm someone.

“Our work does not stop here – we will continue to conduct proactive operations like this to prevent further violent crime from happening in the area, as well as targeting the drivers of violence which we know include drug dealing.

He added: “If you have any information about violent crime or those who might be involved, please contact us so we can take action and make the area in which you live safer.”

If you don’t want to speak to the police, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively, visit their website here.