The operation on Thursday 15 October brought together police officers and the council’s licensing and trading standards teams, working in partnership to tackle concerns about crime and community safety in the town centre.
Arrests and closures
Four police warrants were executed, four people were arrested and suspected Class A and Class B drugs and a weapon were recovered. Two business premises were served with closure notices.
Council officers were involved throughout the operation, carrying out formal licensing inspections, speaking to staff and gathering evidence about how businesses were being managed and whether they were meeting their legal obligations.
Joint operation
The council’s involvement is particularly important because its licensing and regulatory powers can help ensure that action does not end when the police operation finishes. Council officers are now reviewing the evidence gathered and considering what further regulatory action may be appropriate, including a potential review of a premises licence.
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Jonathan Bartley, Cabinet Member for Safer, Thriving Neighbourhoods, said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their neighbourhood, and residents and businesses in Brixton have been clear with us about the impact that drug dealing and other criminal activity is having on their lives.
“We are listening, and we are acting. This operation shows the importance of the council and police working together, combining our different powers and responsibilities to make a real difference. Our council officers have played an important role, not just in supporting the immediate operation but in gathering evidence that will help us take further action where necessary.
“The overwhelming majority of businesses in Brixton make a positive contribution to our community. But where there is evidence that premises are being used for criminal activity, we will not hesitate to use the powers available to us.
“This isn’t just about individual enforcement operations. It’s about sustained, joined-up work with the police, local businesses and residents to address the problems that undermine people’s safety and confidence in their neighbourhoods.
“We want Brixton to be a place where everyone feels safe, where responsible businesses can thrive, and where residents can see that their concerns are being taken seriously.”
Brixton’s Safer Neighbourhood Team
PC Paddy McCarthy-Spivey, of Brixton’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
“This operation marks the start of a sustained programme of activity aimed at tackling the criminality that causes the greatest harm to London’s communities. Working closely with Lambeth Council and other partners, we are relentlessly targeting those involved in drug dealing, violence and the exploitation of local premises for criminal activity.
“Last week’s operation sends a clear message that will continue to use all available powers, alongside our partners, to disrupt organised criminality, support legitimate local businesses and protect the people who live, work and visit Brixton.”
Reporting crime
Anyone with information about crime or anti-social behaviour can contact the Metropolitan Police on 101 or report online at www.met.police.uk.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
