Over 200 people were arrested across London last week, as the Met led a string of targeted patrols and stop and searches in an operation to target violent crime.

Police hit a number of London boroughs, with numerous arrests in Greenwich, Bromley and Lewisham in south east London, as well as Westminster, Hammersmith and Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea.

Officers, joined by the Territorial Support Group and the Dog Support Unit, worked in conjunction with local teams, conducting intelligence led stop and searches and targeted patrols.

The operation was aimed at disrupting crime in known hot spot areas, and the Met said they were "very proud" of the success.

A total of 222 arrests were made, with 5 firearms recovered, 26 knives and 29 others weapons, plus 206 drug seizures.

Superintendent Emma Richards, from the Met’s Taskforce, said: “Our teams are working hard to reduce violence across London, whilst dealing with the backdrop of COVID-19.

“Like so many people across London, our officers have been affected in a number of ways by the pandemic, yet they bring nothing but professionalism and drive when they are out policing."

The Superintendent continued: “Their dedication is demonstrated in the remarkable results achieved; 60 offensive weapons are now off London’s streets, as well as a vast amount of drugs, both of which could cause much harm to the public.

"The Senior Leadership Team for the Taskforce is very proud of the officers on our command, we could not ask for more.

“We will continue to exploit all tactics and powers available to us to suppress violence.”