Police ‘using all of our resources’ to tackle rising gun crime in Newham
Forest Gate has been affected by a rise in gun-related crime in recent months - Credit: Archant
Police have responded to rising gun crime levels in the borough by placing more bobbies on the beat.
Newham has seen an increase in gun-related crimes over the past three months compared to the last year, according to the Met Police, with 14 recorded incidents between August 17 and November 7.
Councillors and gang officers are now working together to reassure communities that public safety is being put first.
Speaking about the rise in gun crime, Det Ch Insp Mike West said: “In direct response, we are using all of our resources, partnership and community links to reduce these offences and arrest those responsible.
“Whilst the investigations are being led by Trident, communities are being updated and reassured through their councillors and dedicated ward officers.
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“Enforcement activity is ongoing and the public can expect to see more uniformed and specialist officers on the streets of Newham, targeting those criminals who blight our communities with gun crime.”
Cllrs Seyi Akiwowo, and Rachel Tripp, who both represent Forest Gate North, tweeted constituents about the plans on Thursday.
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Cllr Akiwowo met with gang police on the same day to talk through her concerns about rising incidents in Forest Gate.
She said: “I asked the police for the meeting and was very encouraged that they reacted swiftly, launching a number of targeted operations in the area.
“We also discussed plans to bring councillors, residents and the police together to work to defeat gun crime on our streets.”
Police said two firearms were seized and a 20-year-old man was arrested and charged following a targeted stop last week.
Anyone with information on gun crime should call 999 in an emergency, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
