53 arrests on Thames bridges

Over the past week officers from the Met's traffic unit have been out on the streets of London disrupting criminals' access to our city and clamping down on uninsured drivers.

The activity was supported by officers from the territorial support group, dogs unit, marine and air support units and culminated in operations at five bridges that represent key routes into and out of the capital.

In total 53 people were arrested for various offences including possession of class A drugs with intent to supply, theft of motor vehicle, handling stolen goods, offensive weapon, possession of CS gas, burglary artifice, disqualified driving and persons wanted on warrant.

A quantity of cash was seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act linked to the supply of drugs, and one arrest led to the recovery (intact) of a recently stolen high value Mercedes. In one instance the use of a drugs dog revealed a large quantity of drugs concealed in a hidden compartment in the dashboard of a vehicle.

"The results speak for themselves and the message from the Met is clear," said Supt. Ian Chappell. "Use the capital's road network to commit crime and you will get caught."