In a significant crackdown on illegal activities and anti-social behaviour, police in central London have seized a £250,000 supercar and a £15,000 custom-built e-scooter as part of a 24-hour operation.
The action, which targeted a range of infractions, also saw the confiscation of 47 vehicles, multiple arrests, and a concerted effort to address various public disturbances.
The high-profile operation, carried out by the Metropolitan Police in collaboration with Westminster City Council, aimed to tackle issues ranging from illegal street trading to noisy and unsafe vehicle use.
Among the most notable seizures was a Mosler Trenne supercar, valued at £250,000. This high-performance vehicle, capable of reaching speeds of up to 190 mph (305 km/h), was stopped in Parliament Square after its driver was seen revving the engine while being filmed by an onlooker.
The operation targeted not only illegal vehicles but also unlicensed street vendors and other public nuisances. Officers from the Metropolitan Police and Westminster City Council addressed complaints about unlicensed buskers in Soho and pedicab drivers playing excessively loud music.
The enforcement action also included the seizure of equipment from illegal street vendors, including two sellers of peanuts on Westminster Bridge.
Additionally, officers assisted a group of children who had become separated from their guide during a school trip in London.
The day’s efforts resulted in the stopping of 500 vehicles, 11 arrests for various offences, and 17 fines issued to cyclists for running red traffic lights.
The seized vehicles included a mix of motorcycles, e-scooters, and other cars, all of which were towed away as part of the crackdown.
Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, Westminster City Council’s cabinet member for city management and air quality, emphasized the importance of maintaining safety and order in the city.
“People who live in Westminster and those who visit every day have the right to walk our streets safely,” Dimoldenberg said. “They should not have to worry about being hit by an uninsured vehicle or buying unsafe or illegal products from street traders.”
Dimoldenberg also highlighted specific concerns regarding e-scooters and supercars. He noted that “carelessly ridden” e-scooters had become a significant source of complaint and described the “summer syndrome of supercars thrashing their engines” as a troubling tradition.
The council’s approach aims to address these issues and ensure that Westminster’s streets are not perceived as a “free-for-all” for unlicensed and anti-social activities.
In addition to addressing illegal vehicle use, the operation focused on street hawkers and the illegal sale of goods.
Officers seized equipment from unauthorized sellers, including a camera and iPad from photographers selling photos to the public, and confiscated items from unlicensed hot dog and ice cream vendors.
These measures were part of a broader strategy to crack down on unauthorized street trading and improve public order.
The operation reflects a growing effort by local authorities to address various forms of anti-social behaviour in central London.
With concerns about vehicle safety and public nuisance on the rise, the Metropolitan Police and Westminster City Council have demonstrated their commitment to ensuring a safer and more orderly urban environment.
As the crackdown concludes, the authorities continue to monitor and address illegal activities across the city.
The operation sends a clear message that Westminster’s streets are to be kept safe and free from unlawful behaviour, with a particular focus on maintaining public safety and addressing community concerns.
The successful execution of this operation illustrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between police and local authorities in tackling illegal activities.
By addressing issues such as unsafe vehicle use and unauthorized street trading, the authorities aim to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in one of London’s most prominent districts.
Looking ahead, the local authorities are expected to maintain their vigilance and continue their efforts to uphold public safety and order.
The recent operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in managing urban environments and the importance of robust enforcement measures in maintaining a safe and enjoyable city for all.
