Category: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Counter Terrorism Police have arrested five people on suspicion of terrorism offences as part of a proactive investigation, which is being led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

The men, who were arrested on Saturday, 3 May, as part of a pre-planned operation are as follows:

[A] a 29-year-old man was arrested in the Swindon area
[B] a 46-year-old man was arrested in west London
[C] a 29-year-old man was arrested in the Stockport area
[D] a 40-year-old man was arrested in the Rochdale area
[E] a man (age to be confirmed) was arrested in the Manchester area

All five men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act (TACT), 2006. Four men [A-D] are Iranian nationals and were detained under TACT. The nationality of the fifth man [E] is still being established and he was detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). All five men currently remain in police custody.

As part of the investigation, officers are also carrying out searches at a number of addresses in the Greater Manchester, London and Swindon areas in connection with this investigation.

The investigation relates to a suspected plot to target a specific premises. Officers have been in contact with the affected site to make them aware and provide relevant advice and support, but for operational reasons, we are not able to provide further information at this time.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “This is a fast-moving investigation and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated.

“The investigation is still in its early stages and we are exploring various lines of enquiry to establish any potential motivation as well as to identify whether there may be any further risk to the public linked to this matter.

“We understand the public may be concerned and as always, I would ask them to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that concerns them, then to contact us.

“We are working closely with local officers in the areas where we have made arrests today and I’d like to thank police colleagues around the country for their ongoing support.”

The arrests and search activity is being supported by officers from Greater Manchester Police and Wiltshire Police, as well as colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing from across the country.

As always, we would ask the public to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then to report it to police – either by calling police, in confidence, on 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives are appealing for the public’s help in identifying a man they wish to speak to following a reported rape on Dame Street, Islington on Monday, 28 March.

The man is described as Black with a slim build, in his late 20s.

He was captured on CCTV wearing all black clothing.

Detective Constable Stephanie Knight from the Met’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team in north London said:

“We have released this image today with the hope that someone will recognise this man. If you do, you must let us know who he is.

“Take a careful look and get in touch via 101, quoting 481/28MAR. The smallest bit of information could prove vital in the investigation. If you do see him, please do not approach and call the police on 999.”

The victim continues to be supported by specialist officers.

The investigation continues.

ENDS

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A 22-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after a 33-year-old man was shot at an address in Newham.

Mohammed Abdullah Khan (02.07.2002) of Upton Lane, E7 was also charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and possession of a prohibited firearm.

Another man, 37-year-old Mohammed Qasim Khan (08.06.1987) of Sprowston Road, E7 was charged with grievous bodily harm and violent disorder.

Both men will appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 3 May.

The charges relate to an incident which occurred in Dunbar Road, Newham at 14:42hrs on Tuesday, 29 April. Police were called to an altercation and arrived to discover one victim suffering from a gunshot wound and two victims with facial injuries.

All received treatment at the scene from the London Ambulance Service and were later taken to hospital where their injuries were deemed to be non-life-changing or life-threatening.

Both suspects were arrested shortly after the incident and remain in police custody.

Officers are now encouraging those with information to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting 4319/29Apr. Or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

The investigation continues.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A fourth man has been charged with murder following a fatal stabbing in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

Zozoro Mohamed Olivier, 20 (14.10.2004) of Lorrimore Square, Southwark was charged on the evening of Friday, 2 May with the murder of Giovanny Rendon Bedoya.

He will appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 3 May.

On Monday, 14 April at 21:16hrs police were called to Hillingdon Street, SE17 following reports of a stabbing.

Officers attended with London Ambulance Service paramedics who treated 21-year-old Giovanny for stabbing injuries.

Sadly, despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead on scene.

Giovanny’s next-of-kin continue to receive support and updates from specialist officers.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

The Met is releasing CCTV of a 17-year-old boy who’s been missing for more than a month as his family appeal for information about his whereabouts.

Deante James left his home in Enfield at around 23:00hrs on Monday, 31 March and was reported missing to the Met the following morning.

Officers began an investigation and recovered CCTV which identified a sighting in The Courtfield Pub in Earl’s Court Road in Earl’s Court at around 20:00hrs on Thursday, 3 April. Further footage showed he had also visited a nearby McDonald’s.

In the footage, Deante is seen wearing a black ‘Trapstar’ cap, a blue jacket, black tracksuit and black trainers. He was carrying a Nike backpack and Nike cross body bag.

As part of our investigation, officers have already viewed over 18 hours of CCTV footage, including multiple cameras across the public transport network. Officers are still awaiting further CCTV which officers will review once it becomes available.

While officers believe that Deante is not carrying a mobile phone, enquiries have been carried out to obtain historic mobile phone date, in order to identify and associates that could know about Deante’s whereabouts.

As well as Enfield, Deante has links to Romford, Dagenham, Hackney, Ilford and Earl’s Court. He may have also travelled to Brighton.

Deante’s mum, Vandana Bhogowoth, said:

“To Boo (Darell Deante, sun son) wherever you are please know that we love you unconditionally and just want you home safe. You are not in any trouble, you are missed beyond words! We are desperate to know you are okay, and all your family are waiting with wide open arms and heart!

“If anyone has seen my son or has any information please contact the police or us immediately. We are desperate for your help. Every piece of information matters. He is very vulnerable as of recent and just want him home so he can get the love, help and support he desperately needs. All our lives are on standstill until he is home safe.”

Detective Chief Inspector Elsa Mak, from the missing person’s team in north London, said:

“Deante has been missing for more than a month as we are increasingly concerned for his welfare. He has not been in contact with any of his family or friends and left without any traceable items which means we have limited opportunity to identify his movements.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting the reference 01/7330181/25. Report immediate sightings by calling 999.

You can also contact the Missing People charity online or by calling 116 000.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A man has been jailed for killing 17-year-old Nathan Bawuah in Hackney following a Met Police investigation.

Rio Lue, 18 (25.09.06) of Pembury Road, Hackney was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment on Friday, 2 May at Wood Green Crown Court.

Through the forensic examination and analysis of CCTV, detectives identified Lue riding to the scene on his bike and getting into a confrontation with Nathan. They were then able to prove that he produced a large machete and stabbed him in the chest.

He was found guilty of manslaughter at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 29 November.

He had already pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon.

Detective Sergeant Dean Musgrove, who led the Met’s investigation, said: “Nathan Bawuah was killed in a brutal cold-blooded assault which lasted seconds, but was so severe he died at the scene.

“Our thoughts remain as always with Nathan’s friends and family as they move forward with their life, safe in the knowledge that Lue is behind bars where he belongs.”

Nathan was fatally stabbed just before 23:00hrs in Hackney Road, E2 on Saturday, 17 February 2024.

Officers and London Ambulance Service rushed to his aid, but despite their efforts, he sadly died at the scene. His family has subsequently been supported by specialist officers.

Lue answered ‘no comment’ to all police questions, but provided a prepared statement claiming self-defence. He was charged on Wednesday, 21 February 2024 with Nathan’s murder.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A man has been convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour in a row over shutting a gate, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.

A jury at Southwark Crown Court found Trevor Gocan, 57 (07.09.1967), of Odhams Walk, Covent Garden, guilty of manslaughter over the killing of James O’Neill – known as ‘Jim.’

The assault occurred in Odhams Walk, close to both men’s homes, on Sunday, 6 October, 2024. The victim died in hospital almost a fortnight later, on Monday, 21 October.

Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, from Specialist Crime South – who led the investigation – said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr O’Neill, who lost a loved one in shocking circumstances.

“The killer acted disgracefully, punching and kicking his victim in full view of members of the public – among them children – on a busy Sunday morning.

“The jury’s verdict shows that casual, thuggish violence will not be tolerated on London’s streets. There was absolutely no excuse for Gocan’s conduct.”

Around 12:00hrs on Sunday, 6 October, 2024, officers responded with the London Ambulance Service following reports that a man had been assaulted in Odhams Walk. Mr O’Neill was treated at the scene for multiple injuries. He was taken to hospital, where doctors established he was suffering from a bleed on the brain.

Police learned that the assailant had gone into a nearby house. There they found and arrested Gocan, who turned out to be a resident at the address.

A post-mortem examination found that Mr O’Neill’s death was caused by complications from a traumatic brain injury and rib injuries resulting from the assault.

At interview, the defendant gave no comment. In court, he claimed he acted in self-defence when he attacked Mr O’Neill, following a row over gate.

Gocan has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 26 June.

Notes to editors: The family would like James O’Neill to be referred to as Jim in any coverage.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

UPDATE:

A third man has been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of Giovanny Rendon Bedoya in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

Brian Villada-Hernandes, 19, (26.02.2006) of St James’s Crescent, Lambeth, will appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 2 May.

Two men charged and another arrested following a fatal stabbing in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

Joseph Jimenez, 21 (14.08.2003) of no fixed address was charged on Tuesday, 23 April with the murder of 21-year-old Giovanny Rendon Bedoya.

He was remanded into custody and appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 23 March. He appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday, 25 April.

Angel Gonzales Angulo, 19 (24.08.06) of Camberwell Church Street, SE5 was arrested on Wednesday, 23 April and was charged on Thursday, 24 April of murder. He appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 March. He will next appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 29 April.

On Friday, 25 April a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder, he remains in police custody.

On Monday, 14 April at 21:16hrs police were called to Hillingdon Street, SE17 following reports of a stabbing.

Officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who treated 21-year-old Giovanny Rendon Bedoya for stab injuries.

Sadly, despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead on scene.

Giovanny’s next-of-kin continues to receive support and updates from specialist officers.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A new way for Londoners to hear about policing in their area is being rolled out, starting in south-west London.

Local officers in the south-west of the capital will lead the way, using ‘Met Engage’ – a subscription email service – to provide their communities with crime prevention advice, updates on ongoing incidents and investigations, and information about successful outcomes and operations.

Neighbourhood policing is at the forefront of the Met’s work to deliver on their ambition for more trust, less crime and high standards.

Communities have told the Met they want to, be more connected to their local policing teams and the Met is now asking people in – Kingston, Merton, Richmond and Wandsworth to sign up for Met Engage here.

People who sign up will be asked to complete a survey, where they’ll be able to select where they live and choose the type of alerts they’d like to be informed about. This means the messages they receive will be specifically tailored to them.

Superintendent Josh Laughton, the Met’s local policing lead in south-west London, said:

“The Met is placing communities at the heart of everything it does by putting more officers into neighbourhood policing to focus on the issues that matter most to Londoners.

“Launching Met Engage is an exciting new way for our neighbourhood officers to keep people updated on what’s going on in their area.

“It will become the place for residents to get reliable information directly from officers who are out in their neighbourhood, whilst also giving the opportunity for people to raise their concerns and have their say. I’d encourage anyone who lives in the pilot area to sign up to Met Engage, so we can work together to keep London safe.”

Met Engage will be a key part of the Met’s community-first approach, by providing a platform to raise concerns, while also being kept updated on the issues that matter most to them in their local area.

The system is provided by VISAV Limited, a company that has produced similar products for other police forces across the UK.

While Met Engage will provide opportunities for the public to highlight issues, it is not a crime reporting tool and will not replace all the existing methods of reporting crime including the Met website, dialling 101 or calling 999 in an emergency.

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch officers are appealing for any witnesses to come forward after two of their horses were attacked by a dog.

Police Horse Yvonne and Police Horse Snaffles were being ridden by officers Sergeant Leon Astley and PC Grace Miller-McCormack, when they were attacked by a dog in Shepherd’s Bush Green, W12, on Monday, 28 April at 11:30hrs.

The dog chased the horses and repeatedly made attempts to bite their legs while the owner struggled to get the pet back under control. Members of the public ultimately had to step in to help detain the dog.

Thankfully, Yvonne and Snaffles are recovering well at their stables with minor injuries and the officers were unharmed.

Sergeant Astley, from the Met Police’s Mounted Branch, said: “What should have been a routine patrol turned out to be unexpectedly eventful, where our hardworking police horses were sadly injured in the course of their duty. Fortunately Yvonne and Snaffles are recovering well and being looked after in their stables.

“We know horses are not a common sight in the capital but we urge all owners to keep their dogs under control to prevent this happening again.

“We’re appealing for any witnesses of the incident to come forward by calling 101 quoting CAD2691/28APR25.”

Investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made at this time. The dog was seized and later returned to its owner.

A person can receive an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months (or both) for having a dog seriously out of control. If the dog injuries someone this can increase to up to five years in prison. It is advisable for owners to keep their dogs on the lead if they don’t have sufficient recall, to ensure the safety of the animal and others around them.

Yvonne, recognisable for her big ears, is 13 years old and has been a police horse since October 2020.

Snaffles, aged 15, has previously starred in Activity Ride, the Mounted Branch’s performance at Olympia, and has been involved in public order policing in central London.

Anyone that witnessed the incident is asked to call 101 or contact @MetCC on ‘X’ and quote CAD2691/28APR25.