Twenty five people have been arrested after 40 homes were raided across Wandsworth, Croydon and Lewisham this morning.

The 25 suspects were arrested on suspicion of offences including possession of firearms, possession of drugs with intent to supply, and handling stolen goods.

On top of that warrants were executed at seven shops in South Norwood High Street.

During the raids, officers seized around £50,000, heroin, firearms and a stun gun.

Detective Chief Inspector Dan O’Sullivan, from South Area Safeguarding Basic Command Unit: “This morning’s operation is the culmination of an 18-month investigation by my officers.

“We have worked tirelessly to identify those believed to be involved in gang activity, supply of firearms, drug supply and violence across the south of London and I am pleased with the results of this activity.

“We will continue to work closely with our colleagues on borough and in other specialist units across the Met to identify and apprehend those intent on, or considering, committing acts of violence.”

"We are working tirelessly - day and night – to identify and pursue offenders, help bring perpetrators to justice, take weapons off the street, support victims, engage and reassure the public, and keep our communities safe; and we are making progress."

All of the 25 suspects have been taken to a south London police station where they remain in custody.

“Some significant areas of violence are down, we are seeing reductions in certain crime types including knife related injuries and homicide but we know this is little comfort to the families and friends of those who have lost loved ones or whose lives have been devastated by violence in some way," Chief Inspector O'Sullivan added.

"We remain utterly committed to tackling and preventing violence."

If you need help or information to support someone you suspect is involved in knife crime, or you want to assistance yourself, then you can visit www.knifefree.co.uk or www.london.gov.uk/content/london-needs-you-alive.