Major Police Operation Targets Organised Crime Networks
More than 300 officers from the Metropolitan Police have carried out a large-scale overnight operation in south London, resulting in 23 arrests and the seizure of firearms, drugs, and weapons.
The coordinated raids took place across 15 properties in Merton, targeting suspected organised crime groups involved in drug dealing, violence, and exploitation.
Police described the operation as a “significant step” in disrupting criminal networks responsible for serious harm across communities.
During the raids, officers recovered:
- Five firearms
- A samurai sword and multiple prohibited weapons
- Large quantities of Class A and Class B drugs
- A significant amount of cash is believed to be linked to criminal activity
- High-powered electric bikes are suspected of being used in drug distribution
Authorities say the scale of the seizure highlights the level of organisation and danger associated with the networks being targeted.
The raids were carried out overnight, involving specialist units including rapid-entry teams, dog units, and local policing teams.
According to police, the operation was intelligence-led, focusing on addresses linked to:
- Drug supply chains
- Violent crime
- “Cuckooing” (where vulnerable people are exploited for criminal activity)
Inspector Kevin Chambers, who led the operation, said the coordinated effort demonstrated the force’s determination to tackle serious crime:
“This is a significant step in cutting the supply chains and criminal networks that inflict serious violence, fear, and intimidation across our city.”
The 23 individuals arrested are being investigated for a range of offences, including:
- Drug supply
- Possession of firearms
- Possession of offensive weapons
- Handling criminal property
- Modern-day slavery-related offences
Police also issued closure notices on certain properties believed to be used for criminal activity, in an effort to prevent further offences.
The operation forms part of a broader crackdown on organised crime across London.
Detective Superintendent Ian Cameron said disrupting drug networks is key to tackling serious violence and protecting vulnerable individuals.
Recent figures suggest thousands of criminal operations have been disrupted in the past year, with authorities aiming to reduce the availability of illegal weapons and drugs on the streets.
Police say the operation is intended to reassure local communities and reduce the impact of organised crime in affected areas.
Residents have previously raised concerns about drug activity and associated violence, which officers say informed the intelligence behind the raids.
Investigations are ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out.
The scale of the operation, hundreds of officers, multiple raids, and significant seizures, underscores the seriousness of the threat posed by organised crime networks.
