Arrests made in Newham during economic crime crackdown

Half a dozen people were arrested in Newham on Wednesday in connection with offences linked to money laundering, identity fraud, and the targeting of elderly and vulnerable people.

Metropolitan Police officers seized more than �2.4million during the London-wide Operation Stimtone, which was focused on economic crime.

People who steal from businesses or their employers were also targeted and were visited by officers throughout the day.

Across the capital, more than 750 cannabis plants were seized, along with two replica firearms, a handgun converted to fire live rounds, a large quantity of class ‘A’ drugs including 170 cocaine wraps, a CS Gas canister, an air rifle and a motorboat valued at around �25,000.

Officers were also busy working closely with the British Retail Consortium to arrest criminals who hijack online shopping accounts. Three controlled deliveries were carried out to addresses where goods had been ordered.

Commander Allan Gibson, who led Operation Stimtone, said: “The successful operation show’s that the Met means business about crimes committed against businesses and individuals.

“I would like to pay tribute and give thanks for the amazing and dedicated hard work that went into yesterday’s operation. The range and value of the items recovered shows how important it is to target and arrest criminals who commit economic crime.

“Our work yesterday, and our ongoing work, is about creating a hostile environment for these criminals and putting the proceeds of crime back in communities through improved policing and improved facilities.

“The total financial seizures were very impressive and many warrants executed yesterday removed dangerous criminals from our streets.”