Police have arrested 23 people and seized a samurai sword, five firearms, and a large quantity of drugs and cash in a coordinated operation targeting crime gangs in south-west London. The raids, which took place across 15 properties in Merton, also uncovered ten prohibited weapons and two high-powered Surron bikes.
Those arrested face a range of offences including drug supply, possession of firearms, possession of offensive weapons, possession of criminal property, and modern slavery. Two addresses were served closure notices to prevent further criminal activity.
Inspector Kevin Chambers, who led the operation, said: 'This is a significant step in cutting the supply chains and criminal networks that inflict serious violence, fear, and intimidation across our city.' He described the operation as a coordinated show of strength involving over 300 officers, including rapid-entry specialists and dog units.
Detective Superintendent Ian Cameron added: 'Drug networks fuel serious violence and today's coordinated operation disrupts those drivers head-on. We're protecting vulnerable people who are exploited within these networks.'
The Met said the operation reflects a 63 per cent increase in targeting organised crime groups in London over the past year, with 3,570 guns and weapons seized across the capital during that period.
