Eight arrests for conspiracy to destroy ULEZ cameras

Eight people have been arrested in a coordinated Met Police operation targeting those conspiring to destroy ULEZ cameras.

In the early hours of Wednesday, 2 July officers executed warrants at addresses in London, Windsor and on the Isle of Sheppey.

The London arrests took place in Uxbridge, Ickenham, Northwood, Sutton and Eltham.

Six men and two women were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage.

One of the men is also alleged to have been involved in threatening and harassing the team sent to repair a damaged camera.

Those arrested remain in custody. Searches are ongoing at their addresses but officers have already recovered items related to the alleged offending.

Superintendent Paul Thomas, of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “There is a big difference between lawful protest and plotting to destroy or seriously damage property.

“Some may think of this sort of behaviour as a victimless crime, but when cameras are damaged or destroyed it creates dangerous hazards, risking collisions on the road in addition to disruption for motorists and residents.

“We take these offences very seriously and officers will continue working closely with Transport for London and other partners to identify and build a case against those responsible.

“Today’s arrests are a significant development in what has been a long and complex investigation that is not yet over.

“I would appeal to anyone who has information about plans to target ULEZ cameras to come forward.”

If you have information, please call the police on 101, or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.