In a pre-dawn operation in Mitcham, south London, Metropolitan Police officers conducted a series of raids as part of Operation Haldor, targeting individuals suspected of supplying Class-A drugs and possessing weapons ahead of the Notting Hill Carnival. Metro was embedded with the force during the operation.
Unlocked door leads to child's cries
At one address, officers carrying door rammers and glass cutters found the front door unlocked, allowing nearly 20 officers to walk in. As they entered to arrest a man on suspicion of supplying Class-A drugs, a child could be heard crying for their mother from an upper floor. Inspector Kevin Chambers said the level of force was necessary to prevent future stabbings, particularly at the upcoming carnival.
Zombie knife found between pillows
At a nearby property, officers discovered a zombie knife as long as a forearm between two pillows on a futon where someone was sleeping. A flick knife lay on a table, and two more knives were seized from cupboards. One knife had a screwable bottom, which officers said was often used to hide drugs. Inspector Chambers noted: 'If we make these arrests now, we can stop people going to Notting Hill Carnival to cause harm. We are not just looking to get teenagers with a couple of bags of weed – these are exploiters within London gangs.'
Mother and son arrested together
Both a mother and her son were arrested at one property, highlighting how family members can become involved in criminal networks. Inspector Chambers added: 'It's sad to face but a lot of people who are exploited later become the exploiters. Women are no exception.'
20 arrests, 16 weapons seized
In total, 20 people were arrested and 16 weapons were seized, including a machete. Officers also recovered a large quantity of Class A and Class B drugs with an estimated street value of £27,000. Bail conditions were imposed on those found with knives to prevent them from attending the carnival. Inspector Chambers said: 'We like to remind officers to impose these conditions to make the carnival as safe as possible. And if it means the people who we have caught today can't go, then we have done our job.'
