Stratford Station security ramped up after police officers seize ‘Rambo’, samurai and machete knives
This 'Rambo' knife was being carried by a teenager at Stratford Station when police searched him. Picture: British Transport Police - Credit: British Transport Police
Police patrols have been stepped up at Stratford Station after three teenagers were caught on the premises with three large blades.
This machete was also seized by officers. Picture: British Transport Police - Credit: British Transport Police
A machete, samuari and Rambo-style knife were seized by British Transport Police officers acting on reports of violence and anti-social behaviour during a recent operation on November 20.
Sheareem Cookhorn, 19, of Park Lane, Tottenham, along with two boys aged 15 and 16 from Tottenham - who cannot be named for legal reasons - were charged with possession of an offensive weapon.
All three pleaded guilty at Highbury Magistrates’ Court on December 12.
Cookhorn was sent to a young offender’s institution for six months and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £115.
The samurai knife. Picture: British Transport Police - Credit: British Transport Police
The 16-year-old was remanded on bail to prevent further offending until January 4, 2018. No result has been determined on the other case.
Ch Insp John Loveless said he believed the police had “prevented a serious assault or worse taking place” as a result of Operation Engulf.
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He said: “It is horrifying and totally unacceptable that individuals are carrying weapons like this in public.
“Officers are working hard with colleagues from the Metropolitan Police to prevent weapons being carried on the streets and transport network.
More police officers will be based at Stratford Station as a result of the arrests. - Credit: Archant
“Anyone found with a weapon can expect to be arrested and prosecuted and we will work to secure convictions with offenders facing the prospect of jail.
“On this occasion I have no doubt the seizure of these weapons prevented a serious assault or worse taking place.”
Ch Insp Loveless said officers were taking action to “reassure the public, prevent crime and tackle offenders robustly”.
More officers will now be spotted on foot in and around Stratford and Stratford International station.
He added: “No one should feel scared or intimidated when travelling through or working at any of the Stratford stations and anyone believing they can display anti-social behaviour or embark in other criminality without consequence should think again.”
Anyone who sees anything suspicious or has concerns is asked to call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016.
Officers will also be willing to speak to members of the public in and around the Stratford station vicinity.
