Westminster Bridge crackdown: arrest, seizures follow

Authorities conducted a significant enforcement operation on Westminster Bridge on October 29, resulting in an arrest, multiple equipment seizures, and the issuance of four penalty notices. The action targeted unlawful activities and breaches of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) at the busy tourist location.

The operation involved a collaboration between Westminster City Council inspectors, police, Immigration Enforcement, Transport for London, and the Mounted Police. Its aim was to address behaviour negatively impacting residents, businesses, and visitors, and to ensure public spaces could be enjoyed safely.

Seizures and Arrests

Among the items seized were a peanut trolley, a 360-degree photography machine, and a pedicab. A pedicab rider was arrested by Immigration Enforcement, and their vehicle was taken into council custody. Equipment belonging to a busker was also confiscated, and that individual will be reported for offences.

Four fixed penalty notices were issued to pedicab riders for breaching the PSPO. Westminster City Council stated that further intelligence-led enforcement activities will continue in identified hotspot locations across the city.

Councillor Caroline Sargent, Westminster City Council’s cabinet member for enforcement, said: "Westminster Bridge is one of London’s most iconic locations, not a place for people to break the rules or operate unlawfully. This operation sends a clear message: if you’re operating illegally or disrupting our public spaces, expect enforcement action. We will continue working with our partners to protect Westminster’s streets and ensure residents and visitors can enjoy them safely."