Machete found as police target violence and drugs at London Bridge

A large-scale police operation at London Bridge station on November 13 led to the discovery of a machete and multiple arrests. The operation, involving 95 officers from the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police, began at 11am with the stated aims of tackling county lines drug offences and violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Less than an hour into the operation, a man was found to be carrying a machete, described as approximately 18 to 20 inches in length. This discovery occurred shortly after an initial arrest was made for exposure in the station's toilets within 20 minutes of the operation commencing.

Multiple Arrests Made

By 2pm, the police had made a total of five arrests. These included charges for exposure, drug offences, specifically possession with intent to supply, and immigration violations. One arrest was also made for failing to appear at court.

Detective Superintendent Nia Mellor, part of the BTP's VAWG taskforce, described the machete seizure as "horrific". The taskforce, established in April, deploys a mix of plain-clothed and uniformed officers to create a "hostile environment" for offenders, particularly on the Underground network. This visible presence aims to deter criminal activity and reassure the public.

The operation also utilised drug detection dogs and a knife arch in the station concourse. Officers were trained to identify unusual behaviour and individuals potentially linked to VAWG-related criminality. A safeguarding team was present to assist any identified victims of crime.

Tackling County Lines and Violence

Detective Superintendent David Udomhiaye, from the county lines taskforce, explained that officers were monitoring for vulnerable adults and children being exploited for drug trafficking. The focus was on identifying children who appeared out of place during school hours, viewing them as victims rather than suspects.

The operation was scheduled to continue until 10pm. Demi Parkill-Fleming, a designing out crime officer for the BTP's VAWG taskforce, highlighted that violence against women and girls is a "national epidemic" with significant underreporting due to societal attitudes. She noted that such operations aim to build public confidence in the police.

Rosie Lewis, BTP's independent sexual violence adviser, indicated a need for sustained funding for the taskforce, which is currently funded for 18 months. She suggested that a safe word initiative, similar to 'Ask for Angela' used in venues, could be beneficial on the transport network to provide a discreet way for people to seek help.