Scores of arrests and weapons seized in cross-border sting.
Nearly 100 people were arrested, weapons were seized and £69,000 of cash was confiscated in a collaborative police operation designed to stop criminals operating across city and county borders.
Thames Valley Police supported the operation with other police forces to combat crooks exploiting the transport network for criminal purposes.
Operation Pandilla aims to address serious crime and County Drugs Lines by making use of unique police technology and intelligence sharing across forces.
Officers from Thames Valley Police – which looks after Milton Keynes – the Metropolitan Police, Surrey, Sussex, Essex, Bedfordshire and British Transport Police joined forces to conduct the operation across a three-day initiative, last week.
The operation resulted in 95 arrests, 15 weapon seizures, 38 drug-related seizures, over £69,000 in cash confiscated and 65 vehicles seized. Targeted crime types included high harm offences such as robbery, burglary, grievous bodily harm, supply of class A drugs, theft of motor vehicles and possession of offensive weapons.
“This operation exemplifies the strength of our joint efforts across multiple forces,” said Detective Chief Inspector Sally Spencer.
“By sharing intelligence across police forces, we continue to tackle criminal activity taking place across our policing borders. I hope that our communities feel reassured that such criminal behaviours are met with swift and robust action. We are committed to disrupting crime and safeguarding our communities.
“We actively respond to your concerns as the public, and the information from our communities is crucial in identifying and intercepting criminality. If you notice anything suspicious, please report it online or by calling 101.
“You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously at: www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.”
