A major police operation involving 300 officers has uncovered a significant cache of weapons, drugs, and cash during coordinated raids across South London. The Metropolitan Police executed searches at 15 residential addresses in the Merton area on Thursday, February 5, leading to multiple arrests and substantial seizures.
Weapons and Drugs Seized in Coordinated Action
During the meticulously planned raids, officers recovered five firearms, a samurai sword, and substantial quantities of both Class A and Class B drugs. Large amounts of cash were also confiscated, alongside two high-powered surveillance motorcycles that were believed to be used in criminal activities.
Multiple Arrests Made Across the Borough
Twenty-three individuals were taken into custody on suspicion of various serious offences. These included drug dealing, possession of firearms and offensive weapons, handling criminal property, and modern-day slavery violations. The operation specifically targeted addresses linked to organised criminal networks operating within the community.
To prevent further criminal activity, police issued Closure Notices for two properties, effectively denying offenders continued use of these premises. This action followed intelligence indicating involvement in serious criminality, including drug distribution, violent acts, and the practice of cuckooing where vulnerable individuals are exploited.
Police Leadership Comments on Operation Success
Operation lead Inspector Kevin Chambers emphasised the scale and coordination of the police response. "The operation unfolded with the power of over 300 officers working in unison—police constables, rapid-entry specialists, dog units, the Territorial Support Group and custody teams—a coordinated show of strength and precision," he stated.
"This is a significant step in cutting the supply chains and criminal networks that inflict serious violence, fear, and intimidation across our city. Our Safer Neighbourhood Teams are ramping up activity—carrying out more manhunts and seizing more illegal cash, guns, and ammunition—because this criminality tears families apart. I hope this activity shows our relentlessness in taking the fight to those responsible."
Ongoing Commitment to Community Safety
Inspector Chambers further highlighted the Metropolitan Police's dedication to proactive crime prevention. "We are committed to community crime fighting and targeting offenders who seek to cause harm or exploit vulnerable people. In addition to today’s activity, we have undertaken several pre-planned operations to target criminality and reduce violence and will continue to do so," he affirmed.
Detective Superintendent Ian Cameron reinforced this message, noting the connection between drug networks and violent crime. "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, acting on the concerns of our communities and staying firmly committed to safer streets," he explained.
Context of Declining Violence in the Capital
The Metropolitan Police recently released statistics indicating that their sustained efforts against violent crime are yielding positive results. Serious violence across London has decreased, with homicide rates reaching record lows. This latest operation in Merton represents part of that broader strategy to dismantle criminal enterprises and enhance public safety.
Authorities continue to encourage community cooperation in combating crime. Residents with concerns about criminal activity in their local area are urged to contact police through emergency services, non-emergency reporting channels, or anonymous tip lines like Crimestoppers.
