Man in custody for carrying 18 knives

A man is in custody this morning after being found carrying 18 knives, likely destined for south London gangs.

The man, aged 23, was arrested by Specialist Crime officers carrying out a proactive operation to crack down on gang-related violence.

Intelligence gathered led officers to conduct a stop and search on the man on Monday, 14 October at around 14.00hrs outside Edmonton Green train station. After resisting the stop and search, officers discovered 18 knives as well as a quantity of class A and B drugs in a drawstring bag.

The man was arrested on suspicion of possession of offensive weapons, and with intent to supply class A and B drugs.

The man remains in custody at a north London police station.

Detective Inspector Lewis Sanderson, who led the operation, said: 

“Time and again, knife crime and gang violence have terrible far-reaching consequences that affect both the victims and the communities around them.

“That is why the Met’s operation to crack down on gangs and knife crime is so important, and it is why communities stand firm with us in this determination. This arrest is a welcome step towards removing weapons off our streets and tackling gang violence.

“We are committed to making the capital a safer place, by reducing crime that impacts individuals, our communities and businesses.”

Under A New Met for London officers are intensifying efforts to reduce knife crime and crackdown on violent gangs, while actively engaging with the local communities to foster collaboration and trust.

Officers and staff continue encourage residents to voice any concerns and help us create safer neighbourhoods for everybody. If anyone has information or wishes to report a crime, they can call 101 for non-emergencies, or dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can report a crime through our website.