Gay men seeking sex under the cover of darkness on Clapham Common are becoming the targets of robbers, according to police.

The men, who go to an area known as the “public sex environment” to meet others, are reporting a growing number of robberies and assaults.

Local police visited the area one night last week and stopped 26 men to give safety advice and warn them of the dangers of their activities.

Sergeant Damon Goodman-Anders said: “I believe the operation was a success. Feedback from the males stopped was very positive and they seemed pleased that the police in Wandsworth are not ignoring the problem and are pro-actively trying to target it.”

The operation, held between 9pm and 11pm on Sunday, July 18, was carried out in conjunction with Wandsworth Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Forum, which compiled leaflets with safety advice and helplines.

Victims of crime who do not want to speak to police can go through the LGBT charity, Galop, by calling 020 7704 2040.

Having sex in public is against the law and can result in a warning or fine.