The Metropolitan Police have arrested nearly 300 individuals and seized 38 weapons during a week-long operation aimed at tackling gang violence and serious crime in the South London boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark. The operation, dubbed Operation Gallium, led to 297 arrests and 238 charges for offenses including possession of dangerous weapons, drug supply, and attempted murder.
During the crackdown, officers executed warrants, conducted stop-and-searches, and apprehended known gang members. The initiative was launched in response to rising gang tensions and a series of high-profile violent incidents in the areas. Between January 1 and June 3, ten homicides were recorded in Lambeth and Southwark, accounting for nearly 20 percent of the 55 homicides in London during that period. While knife crime in these boroughs fell 18 percent in the year to June 30, gun crime saw an increase.
One notable incident during the operation involved two plainclothes officers stopping a 28-year-old man riding a stolen moped in Brixton. The man was found to be carrying MDMA, cocaine, and a mixture known as pink cocaine, along with cannabis and £1,500 in cash. As he attempted to flee, officers pursued him to a car park, where he allegedly struck an officer in the face with a crowbar. The suspect was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and grievous bodily harm and has since been bailed pending further inquiries.
Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who led the operation, stated that the activity is part of an ongoing campaign to reduce violence and enhance neighborhood safety. "Those driving serious violence across London should be under no illusion. We are targeting them relentlessly, and we will use every power available to take weapons, drugs and dangerous offenders off our streets," Bond said. Police also highlighted the challenge of intervening with young individuals joining gangs, noting that the typical age range for gang involvement is 14 to 17, with many older individuals either incarcerated, deceased, or having left gang life.
Over the past 18 months, the Metropolitan Police reported a nearly 20 percent decrease in the most serious violent offenses and a 27 percent reduction in lethal gunshot victims. Homicides remain at their lowest recorded per capita rate. The operation saw 233 stop-and-searches resulting in 40 arrests, and 13 weapons sweeps leading to the seizure of 38 weapons, including knives and firearms.
