The Metropolitan Police led a major three-day crackdown on serious gang-related crime across London and neighbouring counties, resulting in 85 arrests and 85 vehicles seized. The operation, called ‘Operation Pandilla,’ targeted organised criminal gangs involved in drug supply and other offences using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, supported by National Police Air Service and dog units.
Rapid Anpr Pursuits
Within minutes of vehicles being flagged by ANPR, officers launched pursuits to intercept suspects. This swift action led to arrests for possession with intent to supply drugs, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence. The police also seized 11 knives concealed by criminals and over £10,000 in cash.
Multi-force Collaboration
The Met worked with Essex, Surrey, Thames Valley, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Sussex and Hampshire police forces to dismantle cross-border criminal networks. The joint operation focused on disrupting drug supply chains running through the road network linking these regions.
Notable Arrests
- A 27-year-old man in Ealing was arrested for dangerous driving, failure to stop, and possession with intent to supply class B drugs. Police found 750g of cannabis, cash, scales, and a cash counter at his home; he has been bailed pending further enquiries.
- In Barnet, a 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted child abduction and harassment linked to a vehicle seen approaching a young girl. He was bailed awaiting further investigation.
Continuing Crime Disruption
Superintendent Francesca-May Robinson said: “Operation Pandilla highlights the strength of intelligence-led policing and our determination to tackle cross-border offending. This builds on last year’s success, where proactive efforts disrupted serious organised crime groups over 21,000 times.” Since its inception, Operation Pandilla has delivered over 2,700 arrests, seized 1,216 vehicles, 315 weapons, and £545,850 in cash.
