Operation Sceptre arrests in Tower Hamlets and Hackney

THE POLICE have confirmed that a number of arrests took place at the end of last month under the umbrella of Operation Sceptre, which seeks to tackle violent crime across the UK.

The biggest breakthroughs came in Hackney, with the arrests of two men in connection with local robberies.
•One man, aged 29, was arrested in connection with investigations into two robberies and on suspicion of possession of a firearm. A machete and a second weapon, believed to be a gun, were found at the property where the man was arrested.
•A second man was arrested in connection with investigations into five robberies in Hackney.

Other arrests included that of an 18 year old male, who allegedly had a number of bank cards in different names and a large amount of cash in his possession, and a 21 year old male who was arrested for break of bail. In addition to the arrests, 14 weapons sweeps were carried out in various parts of Hackney.

Across London, 803 arrests were made during the Operation Sceptre week of action at the end of March. A total of 121 knives were recovered, along with 93 other offensive weapons and a haul of illegal drugs and stolen property. Metropolitan Police officers were assisted by some 400 Special Constables, many of them carrying out weapons sweeps which recovered knives and illegal drugs.

Detective Superintendent Mike Hamer has oversight of the Operation Sceptre activity in Central East Basic Command Unit (BCU), which encompasses Tower Hamlets and Hackney. He said: “I would like to thank all the officers and staff in both boroughs who have so far been working incredibly hard against the backdrop of wider concerns, for continuing with this crucial policing work. Tackling violence and protecting victims remain top priorities for the Met as a whole, and we are resolute in our commitment to this on the Central East BCU.”

DS Hamer also reminded members of the public that they could report crimes to the police at any time – particularly if they knew of someone carrying a weapon.  Alternatively members of the public can contact Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111 and give information anonymously.

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