Teenager arrested on drugs charges after police find machete in Croydon

A 16-inch machete was found on a teenager who was also arrested on drugs charges after a section 60 clampdown in Croydon.

Officers from the Violence Suppression Unit (VSU) were carrying out a weapons sweep in Drummond Road on Monday when a group of young men changed direction after seeing them.

The group then split up so officers approached some of them to talk to them.

But a 17-year-old ran away, and was held for stop and search after a brief chase.

They found he had a large machete so he was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon – as well as 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.