Police carry out search warrants in East London to catch looters

Police led a series of raids across Tower Hamlets this morning as part of the operation to catch those involved in the London riots.

Officers from the Met conducted five search warrants - the first of more than 100 - at addresses in Tower Hamlets and Hackney as part of Operation Withern, to recover stolen property and arrest those involved in recent incidents.

Four arrests were made for offences involving handling stolen goods and burglary, and all suspects are currently in custody at London police stations.

Police also seized a quantity of men’s and women’s designer clothing.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Steve Kavanagh said: “In the early hours of this morning we started knocking on doors to arrest people.

“We have got more than 100 warrants which we will be working our way through over the coming hours and days.

“With so many officers on duty we want to use their time by going out there and arresting burglars, robbers and thieves - those people who cause concern and crime in our communities.

“Some of those warrants are also directly linked to Operation Withern’s ongoing investigation.”

Detective Inspector Rob Kidd said: “If you know of anyone who was involved in the past few nights disorder, criminal damage or looting please let us know.”

Anyone with information call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.