Moped muggings have increased across the capital during the past 12 months and so too have people’s fears that the police are not doing not enough.
But the Recorder can reveal that officers are working hard to bring criminals to justice through a number of initiatives.
We spoke to the East Area Borough Command Unit’s (BCU) investigation team’s Det Con Joe Seals and Sgt Jenny Moore who supervises the Harold Wood, Heaton and Gooshays Safer Neighbourhood Teams and they shared some of those tactics.
“There is a lot going on behind closed doors,” said Sgt Moore.
“We know who offenders are. We know where they live and what activities are taking place with them and their associates.”
Det Con Seals added: “The Met has launched Operation Venice and what we are doing is a follow-on from that [and addressing] community concerns of antisocial behaviour.”
Launched on Friday, June 23, Operation Venice aims to reduce the amount of scooter thefts and crack down on moped enabled crime. It also encourages riders to make security more visible.
Two boys aged 16 were arrested after a moped chase in Jutsums Lane, Romford on Monday, July 3.
The driver, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested for offences including robbery, and dangerous driving.
His passenger faced charges of allowing to be carried on a moped, robbery and possession of a Class B drug.
On the same day, an 18-year-old man was arrested in Castle Avenue, Rainham, for similar offences on a moped.
There is a misconception that police cannot chase moped riders, especially if they are not wearing helmets.
Police regulations state officers must seek authorisation from senior officers before pursuits take place, which must be authorised in all but exceptional circumstances.
A police spokeswoman said: “The [Met] can and will undertake pursuits in any situation where it is necessary to do so, in line with nationally approved guidance on pursuing motorcycles and in line with approved tactics.
“However, we must first ensure the safety of our officers, the public and the suspect when bringing offenders to justice.”
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