You will also receive information in relation to what your local Safer Neighbourhood Team is up to and what events they are offering for Ward residents. We will send you details of the latest scams and criminal activities.
|
As of Tuesday, 1 November 2011 Lambeth Borough Met Police will no longer be using Community Safe to distribute messages.
We will be using Neighbourhood Link for future communications.
To register to Neighbourhood Link for free, please visit; http://www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk/registration/
|
|
Lambeth Borough Police Officers and the Police Cadets joined the West Indian Association Service Personnel (WASP) to march in a remembrance on Sunday 30 October.The march honours the memory of all the black services personnel who served and gave their lives for this country. During the first and second World War, over 10,000 West Indians served with the British Forces, before being disbanded in 1946. Several thousand West Indians served in the Royal Air Force. There were also 80 West Indian members of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF).
The march began at 12pm at Max Roach Park, SW9 and ended at Windrush Square, where invited VIP guests and Chief Inspector Patrick Beynon gave a short talk and honour salute.
Chief Inspector Patrick Beynon said “It is a privilege for me to be invited to join today’s march with the West Indian Ex –Servicemen’s Association. It has particular relevance especially as it is Black History Month, to honour the many thousands of black service personnel who have served and continue to serve our country. “ |
|
|
Lambeth Borough Met Police carried out early morning raids across the borough today (Friday, 28 October) targeting burglars and robbers in their ongoing effort to reduce these crimes and make Lambeth safer.
Officers executed warrants at addresses in Camberwell, South Lambeth and Streatham, arresting a total of five people.
In the fight against robbery and burglary Lambeth Borough Police use a variety of tactics and planning to apprehend such criminals however officers urge the public to assist them in doing what they can, to protect their homes and personal property when travelling around.
DI Dan Sillitoe from the robbery unit promotes the use of numerous tracking devices available to smartphones such as the ‘Find my I-phone’ App - that can be downloaded and now comes as standard with all the new I-phones. Similar App’s are available to Blackberry and android phones. He comments “These applications activates the GPS signal within the phone and can be tracked on a map. So if you were to fall victim to a robbery there is a possibility we could track your stolen phone and arrest the suspect responsible. However, you have to register your details for it to work, which some people don’t bother to do”.
Lambeth officers have had recent successes in using this technique to conduct area searches for suspects in having arrested four men, in individual cases where the suspects robbed members of the public for their smartphones and an Ipad and thought they had made an escape. These tracking devices were all activated and officers were able to follow them even while the suspects were travelling onboard buses. Suspects were apprehended and arrested while police could eventually re-unite the owner with their property.
Simple techniques such as registering your phone’s IMEI number on property databases such as www.Immobolise.com can assist police in recovering stolen property, returning it to the owner while securing convictions for criminals. The IMEI number is a unique number to the phone’s handset. Lambeth officers in recent months have made three arrests after conducting a check on the phone the suspect was carrying, to discover it was registered to another that had it stolen.
Officers from the burglary unit would also stress occupants to protect their homes against burglary, especially during this seasonal period where the hours of darkness increase. Marking items of value to the website above and using secure locks are small steps to protect your home.
Our officers work closely with intelligence and forensic units to actively target known burglars while our Safer Neighbourhoods Teams (SNT’s) visit the homes of released offenders to deter them from re-offending. The SNT’s are also available to offer crime prevention advice and home security information.
Everett Henry, Head of Equality Diversity and Human Rights for the National Policing Improvement Agency recently went out with Lambeth officers as they carried out similar raids such as this morning and commented; "The police work in a very challenging environment and one of the key public concerns is street crime.
This requires the police to engage and act swiftly, when out on patrol. I had the opportunity to observe for a day, going out with officers during an operational shift. The unit's professional knowledge of the area and the community using good policing techniques has contributed to tackling street crime and burglary, with the aim of reassuring the public to feel safe in their area. "
DCI Mickey Gallagher who leads on acquisitive crime for Lambeth Met Police comments; “I demand a total policing response from all Lambeth officers and staff that is focused on systematic and ruthless tactics within a legal and ethical framework.
The raids conducted today are apart of the some of the daily efforts made by my officers to do whatever is possible to prevent crime and stop robbers and burglars. It is my intention to place the fear of the consequences in committing these crimes, into the mind of the criminals.”
For crime prevention advice or to contact you SNT please visit the Met Police’s website; http://content.met.police.uk/Home
End of release
|
|
|
Lambeth police is inviting residents in the borough to attend a public exhibition about important changes proposed to Brixton police station.
The exhibition will take place at Brixton Library, Brixton Oval, SW2 1JQ, on Tuesday, 25 October 5 - 8pm.
As we know policing in Lambeth has changed significantly in recent years and the time has come to review our custody arrangements. There has been an aspiration for several years to upgrade and update our existing custody facilities but for one reason or another, these plans have not reached fruition. There is now a desire on the part of both the MPS and the MPA to press ahead with a significant custody upgrade.
An important part of this includes looking at custody arrangements.
At present, there are 30 cells for the whole borough, which is not always sufficient. Custody cells in Lambeth are also split across three locations – this means the existing police facilities are not used as efficiently as they could be and officers often have to spend additional time travelling between the various sites.
To address these issues, to improve the service locally, and to help make Lambeth generally safer for all residents, it is proposed to extend custody provision at Brixton police station.
The public exhibition has been organised to give local residents and other interested parties an opportunity to comment on the proposals and ask any questions before a planning application is submitted to Lambeth Council later this Autumn.
People can also find out more or comment until 28 October by writing to; Brixton Custody Extension |
|
|
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe and the Mayor of London Boris Johnson today, Wednesday 19 October launch a major crime busting day with officers around the capital cracking down on uninsured drivers.
One thousand MPS officers will be disrupting criminal activity by targeting uninsured drivers and seizing hundreds of vehicles in London.
And in a graphic warning to rogue motorists Commissioner Hogan-Howe and Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, are using a pile of crushed cars to demonstrate the consequences of being uninsured.
In a coordinated series of operations across the capital, the MPS is targeting those drivers who are more likely to be involved in criminal activity, five times more likely to be involved in collisions and less likely to have vehicles in a road-worthy condition.
This action follows a commitment by Commissioner Hogan-Howe to target criminals and disrupt their activities.
Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe said: "This is the first of the operations I have asked for where officers across the Met will spend a dedicated day on a regular basis targeting uninsured drivers and those believed to be connected to crime.
“We know from experience approximately eight per cent of uninsured drivers are criminals. They’re also more likely to be involved in crashes and have unsafe cars so we’re taking this action to make London’s roads safer.
"Driving without insurance is an offence and this operation will seize the cars of those who ignore the law, while reclaiming the roads for London's responsible and law abiding drivers."
The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: "Operation Reclaim is designed - quite literally - to deliver a crushing blow against crime. Bernard Hogan-Howe demonstrated its success in Merseyside where crime fell by 40 per cent and this new push in London shows how serious we all are about making the city safer.
"Criminals are being given the opportunity to come and collect theirs cars and face arrest or simply watch their vehicles get crushed. I'm confident this day of action is one of many new effective measures the Commissioner is enforcing to bring down crime in the capital and he has my full support."
Leading today’s operation, Commander Steve Watson from the MPS added: “The majority of uninsured drivers are also habitual criminals. Those engaged in criminality will use vehicles to transport themselves across London and beyond to commit crime. They will also use vehicles to carry weapons, drugs and stolen property. This initiative brings our officers into contact with criminals and, through the robust enforcement of the law, disrupts their offending and enables us to bring them to book.
“Uninsured drivers are also five times more likely to be involved in collisions and so this initiative will also help to make the roads safer. Driving without insurance is an offence which actually affects everyone. The reality is that everyone who does insure their vehicles has to pay a significant premium to cater for those who can’t be bothered - this is simply unacceptable.
“Our message to uninsured drivers is to get it sorted immediately. Otherwise we will seize your vehicle and prosecute you - it’s just a matter of time.”
Today’s activities come under the MPS Operation Reclaim initiative which was originally launched in 2007. The operation will be a sustained campaign to target uninsured drivers to disrupt criminal activity and improve the safety of London’s roads.
Roadside check points using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) will be deployed at a number of locations, while officers across the capital will be actively pursuing uninsured drivers using fixed cameras or routine number plate checks.
Uninsured vehicles will be immediately seized and potentially destroyed, while offenders will be prosecuted. The penalty for driving a vehicle without insurance is six penalty points and a £200 fine, and can even lead to a driving ban. In 2010 the MPS seized 34,000 vehicles and prosecuted thousands of people.
To highlight the consequences of not insuring vehicles, a small selection of seized and crushed cars will be on display in Horse Guards Parade, Westminster this Wednesday afternoon.
Neil Drane, Head of Database Services at the Motor Insurers' Bureau [MIB] said: "It's great to see the Metropolitan Police using their resources to target uninsured drivers in London at this time.
"A campaign like this sends a strong message to unlawful motorists that uninsured driving will not be tolerated by making enforcement action highly visible. Police roadside enforcement remains a significant threat to offenders and has a massive impact in keeping our roads safe.
"MIB is committed to supporting police forces across the UK and helping them to disrupt criminality on our roads."
Driving without insurance is an offence under the Road Traffic Act. Officers can use powers under Section 163 of the Road Traffic Act to stop vehicles to check whether they are being driven with the correct insurance and driving licence.
According to the Motors Insurers’ Bureau uninsured drivers increase other drivers’ insurance premiums by £30. They are also five times more likely to be involved in road collisions.
To find out more, or to report dangerous or illegal road users, visit www.met.police.uk/roadsafelondon
It is estimated there are 255,000 uninsured vehicles in London - approx 8.6% of all the cars in the capital. In the UK it is estimated there are 1.2 million uninsured vehicles out of 34 million vehicles.
In 2010 the MPS seized 34,000 vehicles of which 11,000 were destroyed.
According to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau:-
· There are about 34 million vehicles on UK roads, of which four per cent are not insured at any one time.
· One in three (34%) of all uninsured drivers are under the age of thirty.
· Research by MIB found that one in ten of 18-34 year-old drivers are unaware that car insurance is a legal requirement.
· The annual cost of uninsured driving - about £500 million - is paid by all honest motorists to a value of about £30 per insurance premium. About 23,000 people are injured and 160 people killed by uninsured and untraced drivers every year.
· Research shows that uninsured drivers are five times more likely to be involved in road collisions, to fail to comply with other road traffic requirements and to be engaged in other criminal activity.
· About 30,000 claims are made to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) each year for accidents caused by uninsured drivers and those that leave the scene. |
|
|
Lambeth Borough Police have received reports of theft from vehicles, where there has been no sign of forced entry and the victims have locked their vehicle. Criminals are using devices to block the remote signal from the key fob to the vehicle, allowing them access. Always check that your vehicle is locked and valuables are not left on display. |
|
|
As of Tuesday, 1 November 2011 Lambeth Borough Met Police will no longer be using Community Safe to distribute messages. We will be using Neighbourhood Link for future communications. To register to Neighbourhood Link for free, please visit; http://www.neighbourhoodlink.met.police.uk/registration/ |
|
|
With Halloween and Bonfire Night around the corner, Lambeth today Monday 17 October 2011, commences its seasonal crackdown on crime and anti social behaviour.
With both these events approaching, the focus of the MPS will be on ensuring the safety of our communities throughout this period.
Commander Christine Jones said: "We are here for London and to help make sure that everyone can enjoy the festivities and stay safe.
“All 32 London boroughs have a local plan in place, drawing together experience and successful tactics from previous years as well as managing planned events in their areas, focusing our resources in the right places and working closely and continually with our partners and communities.
"I would like to stress that our operations are not aimed at demonising young people, the large majority of whom behave safely and responsibly. However, those intent on committing crime and anti social behaviour will face the consequences.
In the period leading up to half term, schools officers have been reiterating safety tips to young people ahead of the festivities.
Officers are carrying out after school patrols at key locations, such as busy transport hubs and patrols to disrupt potential involvement in robbery, violence and other criminal activities which impact our neighbourhoods.
They will also be using screening arches as well as wands as part of wider detection tactics to deter the carriage of weapons and will take part in test sale operations with Trading Standards regarding the sale of fireworks, alcohol and over the counter weapons.
Boroughs will receive central support for their operations, including mobile phone units that will be deployed in response to particular threats. This additional support is controlled and directed from the MPS Central Command Complex [one of the three MPS 999 centres].
All Safer Neighbourhoods Teams will be patrolling at key times in town centres and transport hubs.
In addition the MPS Safer Transport Command, funded by Transport for London [TfL], is running concurrently Operation Safebus, an intensive two week operation to tackle youth disorder on the transport network during the autumn half term and encompassing Halloween and Bonfire Night.
Commander Jones added: "During this busy period, ensure you stay safe by staying with others and try to attend well organised events.
"When you are out, keep your valuables and high value mobile phones out of sight, or leave them at home.
"If trick or treating, be aware of the impact of your actions on others- it may cause unnecessary worry to some of the more vulnerable members of our communities. Wherever possible parents should try to accompany their children.
“If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team or in an emergency always dial 999.
"Do not forget the security of your home. If you are going out for the evening, ensure you have closed and locked your doors and windows and make sure that you leave lights on. The clocks go back on 30 October, so it may be dark before you expect it.”
Key safety advice:
Advice to parents and carers: Make sure you know where your children are and who they are with Go with them trick or treating if you can Keep fireworks in a safe place in the house Report any anti-social behaviour or concerns to your Safer Neighbourhoods’ Team Attended organised events wherever possible
Advice to young people: We want you to enjoy yourselves but won’t tolerate unacceptable behaviour or anti-social behaviour Ensure you are safe by staying with others Attend organised events wherever possible When trick or treating avoid knocking on the doors of elderly or vulnerable neighbours and causing unnecessary worry
Keeping your home secure:
Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes Make sure UPVC doors are properly locked with a key Make sure the side and/or back gate is locked Lock your shed or garage Make sure that any valuables are out of sight Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home Don't leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, windows or your letterbox.
Kit Malthouse, Deputy Mayor for Policing, added: "We want people to enjoy themselves and also to ensure everyone feels safe going about their business and in their communities. "London remains one of the safest cities to go out at night, but of course you should also employ common sense and be aware of what's happening around you. "For the minority of people that might cause trouble, this will not be tolerated and the police will be ready to respond, quickly and decisively." |
|
|
A week on from a shooting in Clapham High Street, detectives continue to appeal for witnesses. On Wednesday 5 October, police were called at approx. 21:40hrs to reports of a male shot just off Clapham High Street. The male had been sitting in a vehicle in Cato Road near the junction with Clapham High Street SW4, when a number of gunshots were heard. Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and found a man, aged 33, suffering gunshot wounds. His injuries were treated as life threatening and he was taken to a south London hospital. He remains in hospital but is now in a stable condition. Detectives from Trident are investigating. There have been no arrests so far. Enquiries continue. Detective Chief Inspector Lee Watling, from Trident said: “We would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area of Clapham High Street/Cato Road between the hours of 20:00 and 22:00hrs a week ago. “The High Street is a busy place and there will have been many people out for drinks or dinner last Wednesday night. They may have seen something suspicious or witnessed the shooting and are yet to come forward to speak to us. If you saw anything that might help us, I urge you to call the incident room.” Any witnesses or anyone with information should call the Trident incident room on 020 8785 8580, or via the new, non-urgent, number 101. If you have would like to be treated anonymously please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. |
|
|
This is an appeal from Inspector Nicholas Fallowfield to get more of the Streatham population to act on police crime prevention advice. The advice really does make a difference and I would like more people to benefit from it so I can reduce the number of victims of crime in the Streatham area.
Please take the time to read the attached presentation and to:
1. act on the advice yourselves
2. help spread the crime prevention message by talking to your neighbours and friends and in forwarding the presentation to as many Streatham people that you know.
Thank you kindly in anticipation of your assistance,
Nicholas Fallowfield Streatham Inspector Streatham Police station, 101 Streatham High Road, SW16 1HT ( Phone: 020 8649 2267 ( Mobile: 07760 495355 : nicholas.fallowfield2@met.police.uk
|
|
|
Photographs of looters and those involved in the violent disorder in Brixton Town centre in August are being shown on advertising vans to encourage people to identify them under Operation Withern. This operation is the MPS’s response to investigate the serious disorder and violence that affected parts of London. The ad van has been positioned in Windrush Square, Brixton SW9 yesterday and today (06/10/2011) from 8 till 4pm.
The van will also be deployed in Streatham on Friday and Saturday, before returning to Brixton on Sunday and Monday. To view the latest images please visit one of the locations where the ad van may be or visit: www.met.police.uk/disordersuspects/
|
|
|
For the week ending 25 September 2011 the National Mobile Phone Unit (NMPU) has reported that Lambeth Borough Police is the highest performing borough in the whole of the MPS for conducting IMEI checks on the National Mobile Property Register during ‘Stop and Searches’ and for prisoners in custody. This has resulted in three arrests over the past six days.
This top performance follows recent weeks of activity led by Lambeth officers to increase the recording and searching of IMEI numbers for stolen mobile phones.
The International Mobile Equipment Identity number (IMEI) is a unique number associated with every mobile phone handset and if registered, can help police find your mobile phone if stolen.
As part of their action in recovering stolen mobile phones and arresting thieves, officers have;
· Obtained all IMEI numbers from victims of crime where a mobile phone was stolen · Conducted IMEI checks on the National Mobile Property Register (NMPR) before reporting a crime · Conducted IMEI checks on the NMPR during stop and searches on the street · Conducted IMEI checks on the NMPR for phones belonging to prisoners in police custody
Three arrests have been made by Lambeth Task Force;
[1] A sixteen year old youth from south Lambeth was arrested for possession of a stolen phone by means of robbery when the IMEI was checked conducted during a stop and search.
[2] A seventeen year youth from Brixton was arrested for possession of a stolen phone by means of robbery when the IMEI was checked conducted during a stop and search.
[3] A thirteen year old youth from Clapham was arrested for possession of a stolen phone by means of robbery when the IMEI was checked conducted during a stop and search.
Daniel Sillitoe, Detective Inspector for the Lambeth Task Force stated: "Members of the public that reside in or visit the borough of Lambeth can help the police with this initiative by registering their property for FREE via the website www.immobilise.com. By doing so it increases the chances of stolen property being restored to it's rightful owner.
The public can also take simple measures to prevent themselves becoming a victim of street crime in the first place by refraining from displaying high value items, such as talking or texting on mobile phones whilst in the street. By doing so it draws attention to the opportunist thief. Help us to reduce this crime”.
END OF RELEASE |
|
|
Lambeth officers are appealing for witnesses to a GBH that took place during the early hours of Sunday, 11 September between 4 - 4.20am at a bus stop near Top Save supermarket on Streatham High Road SW16.
The 24 year old victim was hit across the head with a glass bottle which broke and left him with facial injuries and bleeding on the brain.
His injuries are not life changing or life threatening.
The three suspects are described as Eastern European, possible Romanian men. There are only descriptions of two suspects.
Suspect 1 - Aged mid to late 20's, with a tanned complexion. He has short dark curly hair, approximately F508 in height and was wearing a short black jacket.
Suspect 2 - Aged early to mid 40's, with a tanned complexion. He has black short straight hair, swept at the front to one side and is approximately F508 in height. He was wearing a blue shirt and dark suit type jacket.
Lambeth CID officer, DC Nicky Dixon is investigating and would request anyone with information regarding the incident to call police on 020 8649 2034 or email Dixon.R.Nicola@met.police.uk. Or if you wish to remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
|
|
|
Lambeth Borough Officers are warning the public against buying goods from strangers approaching them in the street.
We have received several reports of members of the public being approached in Brixton town centre, by men claiming to be selling goods as they are emigrating abroad.
The victims are shown the goods, most recently a laptop and have handed over cash only to return home to find that the laptop case is empty or weighed down with bottles of water.
If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always question it. |
|
|
Troy McLeod aged 27-years (Dob 19/9/83) of Brighton Terrace, Brixton, SW9 was given 20 month imprisonment at Inner London Crown Court yesterday (Thursday 22 September) for burglary.
The court heard that on 8 August between 1am - 1:30am, around 50 people made their way to the main entrance shutters of the Tesco store. Through force of numbers, they pushed up the metal shutters and barged their way into the store. Some of the group ran along the front of the store by the check-outs raiding coin boxes from the checkouts, assaulting staff and stealing property. McLeod was found by Police in the staff fire exit stairwell wearing gloves on his hands. McLeod pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing and summing up the judge ordered that the 44 days spent in custody on remand would count towards the final sentence. DI Denton of Operation Withern comments, "This is a good result. We are continuing to work hard to bring offenders involved in the disorder before the works."
|
|
|
Lambeth officers arrested two young men for robbery of an Iphone 4 in Streatham during the evening of Thursday, 22 September. They were able to use the inbuilt tracking ‘app’ on the handset to locate the suspects.
The victim had been walking down the road watching a downloaded film on his handset when the two suspects approached the victim from behind and he was robbed.
Whilst one suspect was detained nearby another escaped. However, when officers arrived on scene they were able to track the second suspect who was arrested nearby.
DI John Boitel-Gill of Lambeth Police Robbery Unit comments; “The key message here is for people to be aware of their surroundings to make a conscious effort not to highlight that they have a mobile phone by overtly displaying it. Moreover when your smart phones has technology such as tracking type ‘apps’ then switch it on. It could be a tremendous asset in trying to trace your phone and arresting those suspected of being involved in stealing it.”
The arrested two remain in custody.
END OF RELEASE |
|
|
Lambeth officers have arrested four men for theft of high value cable on Tuesday, 20 September on Kennington Road, SE11.
Since this arrest, all four men have been charged on Wednesday, 21 September and remanded to appear at Camberwell Magistrates Court on (27.09.11) where they have been further remanded to Brixton prison.
[1] Dean Hunt, aged 45, date of birth; 26/06/1966 of Parkhurst Drive Rayleigh, Essex
[2] Sean Carlton, aged 45, DOB; 17/11/1965 of Wellington Drive, Dagenham Essex
[3] Ben Petitt, aged 30, DOB; 26/01/1981 of Corringham Stanford-Le-Hope Essex.
[4] Victor Manning, aged 24, DOB; 17/11/1986 of Aldborough Road, Dagenham Essex.
Police welcome information from the public that may lead to the arrest of possible, bogus workers. In an emergency dial 999 for non-emergency calls please dial 101 to report. |
|
|
One lesson young people received when they headed back to school this month focused on how to improve their experience of travelling by bus in the Capital.
Officers from the TfL-funded Metropolitan Police Safer Transport Command (STC) will be engaging with young people as part of the Safe Travel For All initiative, which aims to improve travel confidence for passengers who may feel vulnerable whilst travelling on public transport and educate them on safely travelling around the capital’s bus network.
Recently Lambeth officers from the Safer Transport Team in partnership with TfL set up a stationary ‘mock’ bus at Vauxhall Bus Station through which, they engaged with children travelling through the station and spoke about safer and responsible travelling in the Capital.
Onboard the ‘mock’ bus children were able to experience the role of a bus driver and understand what they deal with on a day-to-day basis, while viewing the CCTV similar to real buses. The mock bus was also equipped with a widescreen TV on which the children were able to watch short educational films.
Police officers from London’s 32 borough Safer Transport Teams are currently carrying out extra patrols at school start and finish times, assisting youngsters with oyster card applications, taking part in Safety and Citizenship events and setting up engagement stalls in transport hubs and schools across the capital.
Lambeth officers will continue to provide safety and security advice and those taking part have the chance to talk about any safety concerns relating to their local transport network understand and act upon any transport-related concerns.
The Safe Travel For All initiative will progress throughout the year with a series of engagement activities designed to improve the travelling confidence for other groups that sometimes feel vulnerable when travelling.
Chief Superintendent Sultan Taylor, Metropolitan Police STC, said: “Everyone should be able to feel confident whilst travelling on London’s transport system and young people returning to school are no exception. The back to school period can sometimes be a daunting time for young people, particularly those who have just started secondary school and are travelling independently for the first time. Our increased youth engagement activity and partnership with TfL through the Safe travel for all initiative play a vital role in improving the travelling confidence of young people across the capital.”
END OF RELEASE
Notes to editors
·For more information contact your local Safer Transport Team, visit www.met.police.uk/transport or www.tfl.gov.uk/travelsafe
· The MPS Safer Transport Command is funded by TfL to fight crime on buses, tackle illegal taxi touts; and assist with the control of traffic congestion;
· Overall there are around 2,000 Police Officers and PCSOs dedicated to patrolling the bus network in London; · There are 32 STTs covering every borough in the Capital. The teams also incorporate 32 hub teams, introduced by the Mayor in 2008. The teams patrol geographically defined areas identified to benefit from additional police; · The STTs act as a visible deterrent to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour on and around buses. They also enhance and work closely with existing Safer Neighbourhood Teams, Safer School Officers, British Transport Police and local transport staff to ensure Londoners can move around the Capital more safely and confidently; · London’s buses carry 6.4 million passengers a day on 700 routes across the Capital; · All of the 8,500 buses are fitted with 75,000 cameras;
· Safe Travel For All is a joint STC and TfL initiative that will be run throughout 2011 focusing on vulnerable user groups. As part of this initiative engagement activities will be carried out during specific times of year with following groups: ·Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community (LGBT) ·Black Minority and Ethnic community (BME) ·Young people ·Women |
|
|
A baby choking to death was saved by two PCSO’s on a cycle patrol near Brockwell Park SE24 on Friday 16 September.
PCSO Joe McCarthy and PCSO Nathan Walters from Brixton’s Local Policing Team were passing by the park at about 2.30pm when they were flagged down by a distressed woman who wanted them to go over to the grass area where there was two other women with several young children.
The PCSO’s could immediately see that the baby aged seven months was placed over the mothers lap and was choking. Due to the complete training officers receive the PCSO’s reassured the mother that he could help and drew upon their experience to handle the situation. PSCO Walters with the mothers permission took hold of the baby and placed it facing down and gave it gentle pats on the back until the item had been disloged. During this time PSCO McCarthy used his radio to call for an ambulance. After a short while it was clear that PCSO Walters managed to dislodge the blocked airway of the young baby and the rest of the family began to calm down along with the baby itself. They stayed with the family and baby until the ambulance arrived. PCSO Joe McCarthy of Brixton LPT comments; "We were faced with a challenging situation and we acted accordingly. PCSOs often receive criticism for their role, however this situation reflects the seriousness of incidents that we and other PCSOs are called to deal with on a regular basis. Hopefully this 'good news story' will stand as testament to the fact that PCSOs provide a useful and protective role to the community". Inspector Stuart Bell of Lambeth Borough Met Police commented: “I believe that it was the quick and calm intervention by these two officers that saved the life of this young baby. They used their training to communicate, act concisely and deal with a number of distressed women who were obviously concerned for the safety of the child, we are very proud of their actions”.
|
|
|
The Oval Safer Neighbourhood team is appealing for witnesses to an incident in Kennington Park, SE11 on Saturday 10 September at around 20:30hrs whereby a dog received serious injuries in an attack by two other dogs.
The dogs were not on leads and ran freely towards the dog before attacking, causing severe injuries to the dog’s stomach.
Both dogs were with their owner who then walked off from the park.
The owner is described as a black man, in his late thirties, medium build, with dreadlocks and around 5'9" tall.
The dogs are described as being similar to Staffordshire Bull Terriers. One of the dogs is described as dark brown with a white coloured chest, with the other described as being dark coloured.
Officers are appealing to speak to anyone who has information about the incident, and are particularly keen to speak to anyone who can identify the owner.
I would also like to re-assure visitors to the park that such incidents are rare, but ask that all dog walkers take responsibly to ensure that they keep control of their dog at all times .
Anyone with information can contact the team on 0208 721 3592 or via email at Oval.SNT@Met.police.uk. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. |
|
Police also appealed in January this year to anyone who recognized an unusual gun which they believe was used to murder Ricardo. The gun, a British-made Webley mark six revolver, is believed to have been produced in 1924 and is in good condition. Police believe that this weapon may have been kept by someone as a keepsake for the war and may have had it taken in a burglary.
Detectives from Homicide and Serious Crime Command, who are investigating, also know that the same gun was fired during an incident on 14 September 2010 in Picton House on the Clapham Park Estate in Brixton. No one was injured in that incident but the gun was found the following day on the Clapham Manor Estate in Brixton. Forensic ballistics identified that this type of gun was used in Ricardo's murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Scola from the MPS Homicide and Serious Crime Command, said:
"It is now a year since the Ricardo died and we want the people that have information to come forward. Someone out there knows exactly what happened that night, and they owe it to Ricardo's loved ones to come forward.
"Ricardo was a young man with no criminal past or connections. Despite taking statements from over 200 people who knew Ricardo or who lived near where he was killed, the motive for his murder remains unknown. A reward of up to £20,000 is still available to anyone who can help bring Ricardo's killers to justice."
There have been no arrests in the investigation.
Anyone who has information or can assist police with identifying the gun is asked to contact the incident room on 0208 7214005, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. |
|
|
I would like to take this opportunity to update you on Operation Withern, which is the MPS response to the disorder last month. Over 2,100 people have now been arrested across London in connection with this with around 1,200 charges already so far. There will be many more arrests to come including in Lambeth as this investigation continues for several more months. The scale of this investigation is huge however we remain determined to bring to justice all those who were involved in criminal acts. Forensic and crime scene examiners have been working on more than 1,100 crime scenes across London. There have been approximately 7.8 million internet visits of the suspect images on our Flickr page. These are available for everyone to look at to identify suspects. You can imagine the impact that this is having on our resources but the officers on Lambeth have been magnificent. They have been working extended shifts with few rest days. London has also drafted in extra officers from other forces across the country. For example we have officers from Lothian and Borders Police, North Wales and Gloucestershire Constabulary to name a few that will be patrolling on the Borough as part of the overall MPS response to Withern. In Lambeth they have been undertaking hot-spot patrols in some of our high crime locations as well as estate patrols. I know that officers from other forces have welcomed the experience of patrolling Lambeth and have been well received by local communities. Crime has noticeably fallen since the disorder. The response from the Lambeth public in coming forward with information has been absolutely fantastic including their support. This has greatly assisted the borough in quickly returning to normality and arresting offenders. We were also not as badly affected as some other boroughs. I want to thank everyone for their help and ask for their continued support. If you know anyone involved in the looting tell us - don't let them get away with it. Local Police Teams and SNT’s on the clusters have been involved in reassurance patrols as well as enforcement. Streatham Local Police Team recently searched premises under a warrant and as a result arrested two suspects for burglary as well as a third who was wanted in connection with robberies. We would like to assure you that we have plans and resources in place to respond to any further disorder and deal with normal policing across the city to keep Londoners safe. We continue to work with our partners and the community to help ensure residents and businesses can go about their daily lives with confidence.
Regards, Pat Beynon Chief Inspector Safer Neighbourhoods Lambeth Borough |
|
|
Police in Lambeth are appealing for help in tracing a woman missing since Monday 5 September. Jean Iris Ryder, aged 53-years was last seen at her home in Lancaster Avenue, SE27. Jean was last seen wearing black leggings, grey T-shirt and a maroon jacket. Jean suffers from mental health issues and may be vulnerable. Anyone seeing Jean or who knows her whereabouts should call Lambeth CID on 020 8649 2058. Please See Community Safe Website for full details and photograph
|
|
|
Over 400 people took to the streets of Lambeth on Saturday 3 September to take a stand against gun and knife crime. In the past ten years eighty people have tragically lost their lives through gun and knife crime in Lambeth of which twenty one have been aged 21 years old or younger. Four have only been aged 15.
The march organised by Brixton Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church with support from the Metropolitan Police marched alongside community members, the Lambeth Black Families Forum and the organisation ‘Not Another Drop’.
This year’s public rally was themed ‘Be the change’ calling upon the community to begin living in ways that encourage peace towards each other. A focus was placed on everyone in Lambeth including young people to take personal responsibility in becoming positive influences among their peers. Taking this initiative to ‘be the change’ they wish to see in the world, as opposed t o passing on that responsibility and empower young people to take control of their future.
Members began the march from outside the Brixton Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Ducie Street at 12:00pm and made a procession through Brixton before assembling at Windrush Square, SW2. The march was led by the Drum Corp of Brixton and Lewisham SDA Pathfinder Youth Clubs
Upon arrival at Windrush Square the congregation and joining members of the public were welcomed by Layne Robinson who is a Youth Leader, before hearing songs and speeches from some of Lambeth Councillors, XLP youth charity, Lambeth Black Families Forum, community members and Chief Inspector Patrick Beynon of the Met Police in Lambeth.
Pastor Maureen Rock, intern Pastor of the Brixton Seventh-Day Adventist Church, is encouraged by the young people and their passion to lead a positive change within their community. She said, “Our church’s stance is that we will be a Christian presence in Brixton and beyond. This march is an expression of the unity we want to see in the community. This march is our way of saying we are joined in unity to enable this change to take momentum”
Chief Inspector Patrick Beynon of Partnership for Lambeth Met Police comments: “The community should unite together as we have seen today. Everyone can play a part in helping to make Lambeth a safer place to live. These murders must stop. The police alone cannot achieve this. It is only through everyone making a stand and working together that we can and will make a significant change”.
Police Sergeant Paul White of Ferndale Safer Neighbourhoods Team helped to organise the march and was on hand with his team to ensure public safety and to prevent any public disorder while supporting the important community issues being raised. PS White added; "This march has helped bring the community together in a very worthwhile cause, and will help divert some youths from gangs while sending a message that the whole community is against this violence."
END OF RELEASE |
|
|
The Metropolitan Police Service is urging Londoners to take care of their valuables when out and about in a renewed awareness campaign, launched today, 5 September to help reduce street crime. To support the campaign a 1000 officers and PCSOs will be helping and engaging with school children across London as they start their new school year.
As operational activity to tackle personal robbery continues, including increased patrols in key locations and pro-active investigations to arrest suspects the MPS is asking Londoners to take simple steps to help themselves from becoming a victim.
While overall crime in London continues to fall there has been a recent rise in street robbery. The main factors for this year’s increase are a rise in the theft of high-value smart phones and digital media players; and gold jewellery robberies where stolen chains and necklaces are being sold for cash through the second-hand market - largely driven by the high value of gold.
The campaign, comprising of radio, roadside and online marketing activity will advise Londoners of how thieves see possessions as cash and reminds the public to take care where they take their valuables out.
To coincide with the new academic year the Met will be supporting children, especially year seven pupils just starting secondary school to advise them on how to keep safe. As 11 year olds start their new schools they are often making longer journeys or have new phones. At this time of year we have previously seen an increase in the number of young people (11-16) whose mobile phones are stolen after leaving school.
From today (5 September) until half-term (21 October) about a 1000 police officers and community support officers (PCSOs) will be deployed each day specifically to protect young people as they make their way home from school or college. They will provide a visible presence outside schools, in and around transport hubs and even on buses to reassure young people, give them tips on how to keep safe, and letting them know about SAFE: the Met’s youth website.
Assistant Commissioner Ian McPherson, head of MPS Territorial Policing said: "We take street crime very seriously - being robbed can be a traumatic experience and so tackling it is a key priority for us and we are doing everything we can through enforcement, education and prevention to address it.
“While concerted actions to tackle street robbery continue - including thousands of arrests under Operation Target, the Met’s drive on crimes against people and property - we are asking the public to take some basic precautions to help minimise the chance of it happening.
“When you are out, where possible try to keep any valuables hidden. Smart phones and media players are becoming must-have items for many people - that includes criminals too. They simply see these items as cash.
"Many robberies happen when people check their phones just after leaving a train or underground station, or when they are going about their business and may be distracted. Young people too, especially secondary school-aged children are also targeted - usually after school by other young people.
"We’re not asking the public not to use their phone or media players in public, or not to wear jewellery - we are just advising them to be vigilant about where and when they use or wear them.”
This year the MPS has been working with a range of partners and industries to help tackle the issues.
We’ve been working with local authorities to close down disreputable businesses and venues such as pawn shops, licensed premises, and crack houses - places which can attract or generate crime and anti-social behaviour.
In August the MPS and Cash Converters signed an information sharing agreement at New Scotland Yard to help tackle the issue of stolen goods being sold on the second-hand market. Under the terms of the London-wide agreement, the two sides will share information about any suspicious goods brought into the store and any items recovered by police.
We are working with the second-hand gold industry to look at ways of preventing thieves using this method of making financial gain from their crimes. The rise in gold chain snatches is believed to be because of the increased price of gold, and it is suspected that thieves are using second hand gold dealers to offload stolen jewellery. The MPS is aware of at least one incident where a gold chain stained with blood (likely to have been a victim’s) was sent in the post to a second hand gold business.
The MPS has also been working with the mobile phone industry to see how technology and software, such as tracking applications (apps) can help reduce street crime. Many of the latest smart phones can access apps which can help find lost or stolen mobile phones. Recently, a number of alleged suspects have been found in possession of stolen phones and tablets after police had found them due to the owner activating tracking software and applications.
In one case a 14 year old girl was arrested after officers used GPS tracking technology to find an I-Pod stolen in Brent on 2/8/11. The 13 year old victim had activated an app allowing the location of his phone to be traced. Officers followed the signal to an address in Wembley and arrested the girl who was found in possession of the I-pod. She was later convicted at Brent Youth Court on 22 August and sentenced to a referral order.
Londoners are also advised to keep a record of their phone’s IMEI number: its unique reference number. To find out the IMEI number type in *#06# and it will display the 15-digit number, which can then be registered at www.immobilise.com.
AC McPherson added: “As well as taking care where you take out your valuables, we urge owners of smart phones, MP3 players and tablets to record the IMEI number and register it at immobilise.com. We also advise owners to lock their devices, and utilise existing and freely available GPS tracking and location apps. These actions can help us find the phone if stolen as well as arresting the person who stole it.
“I’d like to remind Londoners that street robbery is still relatively lower than in previous years including 2006 when robbery was at peak levels. Our actions, particularly under Operation Target have helped stop the increase in robbery, while achieving reductions in overall crime and violence.
“There are seven million residents and a million visitors in London every day - this means the likelihood of being robbed in the capital is tens of thousands to one.
“We are here for London, and to help make sure people - whether young or old - can go about their daily lives as safely as possible. We are determined to do what we can to stop it happening in the first place, catch those responsible and bring them to justice.”
For more information or advice on how to keep safe visit www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention. |