Janice R. Andrews
BTP has announced the arrest of almost 60 people in a series of anti-robbery operations as part of a major crackdown on phone theft that is hurting the London rail network. The arrests were made as part of Operation Invert, which was started in reaction to a discernible increase in thefts throughout the train network, between December 31 and February 3.
Thirty-five of the 64 people who were detained had a specific connection to robbery offenses. Notably, 22-year-old Newham resident Mahamadou Jawara guilty to seven theft offenses and four robbery counts. In addition to being sentenced to 20 months of suspended jail time, Jawara also had to pay £2,200 in fines.
Police made 15 weapons seizures from the rail network in addition to the arrests, and they also filed robbery charges against two minors. Superintendent John Loveless underlined the force’s zero-tolerance policy for such offenses and highlighted ongoing initiatives to stop young people from becoming involved in robberies by implementing preventative measures including juvenile rehabilitation orders and criminal conduct orders.
In addition, two youths from Keighley, East Yorkshire, have entered pleas of guilty to robbery and attempted robbery at Bingley train station. As a result of their acts, they have been given Youth Rehabilitation Orders.
With a promise of continuous monitoring and enforcement actions, the British Transport Police reassures the public of their sustained commitment to combating weapon possession and robberies on the rail network.
