Firearms seized in south London
12 October 2012
Six firearms were yesterday removed from the streets of south London following three separate operations by the Metropolitan Police Service's (MPS) Trident Gang Crime Command and the Specialist Firearms Command.
The rifle, sawn-off shotgun, and four handguns were recovered on Thursday, 11 October, at various addresses in Southwark, Croydon and Sutton as part of intelligence-led investigations by Trident, with the assistance of specialist teams and borough colleagues.
"Trident officers continually target the suppliers of lethal firearms"
The recovery was the result of Trident's ongoing efforts to target gang members and organised criminals operating in the south London area.
Five males - aged 33; 18; 20 and two aged 17 - and a female aged 19 were arrested on suspicion of firearm offences in connection with the discovery.
All were taken into custody at various south London police stations. Four men and a woman remain in custody. On of the 17-year-olds has been bailed to return pending further inquiries.
The firearms have been sent for forensic testing.
Detective Chief Superintendent Dean Haydon, Head of Trident, said: "Trident officers continually target the suppliers of lethal firearms, protecting the public by removing guns from the hands of organised criminals and gangs. The Met has seized over 280 firearms and a large amount of ammunition from the streets of London this year alone. The number of shootings taking place in London has also significantly reduced, with 28% fewer incidents than last year."