A month-long crackdown on Wandsworth gangs has been launched today.

The operation will target youth-on-youth crime seeing gangs targeted and officers patrolling robbery hot spots before and after school.

According to police the beginning of a new academic year always sees a rise in school age robberies.

Superintendent Clive Sutton, of Wandsworth police, said: "Transport links, shopping centres, parks and the areas around schools and colleges are the robbery hotspots and we are mixing a strong visible presence with undercover policing to stop robbers from operating.

"Our Safer Neighbourhood teams have identified the local venues where young people meet and will be patrolling these establishments during peak times to ensure people are safe."

He explained officers would be using mobile metal detectors at stations and shopping centres to catch people with knives.

Police dogs and mounted patrols would also be taking part in the operation.

Crime prevention advice

  • Do not take the latest gadgets to school
  • Use a UV pen to mark your property
  • Try to travel with friends on the way to and from school
  • Tell your school or the police if you or someone you know has been the victim of crime