POLICE have arrested 140 youths so far today in raids across London tackling gang-related violence. It is Scotland Yard’s biggest raid of its kind under Operation Blunt 2, the Met’s drive launched a year ago to combat knife crime and other serious yob violence

By Mike Brooke

POLICE have arrested 140 youths so far today in raids across London tackling gang-related violence.

It is Scotland Yard’s biggest raid of its kind under Operation Blunt 2, the Met’s drive launched a year ago to combat knife crime and other serious yob violence.

They have been targeting suspects involved in violence, many involved in street gangs.

Raids have taken place at a number of addresses across all 32 boroughs where arrests have been made.

ROBBERY

Those arrested, including nine in London’s East End alone, are being held at various police stations on suspicion of robbery, assault, violent disorder, aggravated burglary and drug running.

Police Commander Mark Simmons said: “I would like to make it clear we are knocking on doors because someone living there has invited us in. We have targeted several gangs, focusing on violent offenders to put them before the courts.”

Seizures included three dangerous dogs in the East End, Lambeth and Ealing and a gun in Paddington. Officers have also seized property believed to be the proceeds of crime.