Three man were arrested in a police swoop after one suspected armed robbery and four burglaries were reported in a day.

Sutton Borough Commander Guy Ferguson led the surprise operation featuring all his available officers across the borough, stopping and searching vehicles and people for a whole hour last Friday.

During the operation, Tom Berge, 28, of Maldon Road, Wallington, and Joseph Gokmen, 21, of Winchcombe Road, Carshalton, were arrested by PC Jocky Boyle and PCSO Renato Romero, of Beddington North Safer Neighbourhoods Team, in Stafford Road, Wallington, at 12.19pm.

They were charged with robbery and possession of an offensive weapon at Coral’s bookmakers, in Banstead Road, Sutton, which took place earlier the same day, and taking and driving away a motor vehicle.

Both men were also charged with a robbery and possession of an offensive weapon at Betfred, St Dunstan’s Hill, Sutton, on August 26.

A third man aged 20 was also arrested, but has been bailed pending further enquiries.

Borough Commander Ferguson said: “These operations will continue. I want the public to have confidence in the police that we are out on the streets doing what the public expect us to do - making arrests and deterring the activities of criminals.

“We ask residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to police immediately by dialling 999.”

Anyone with non-urgent concerns should contact their local SNT.