Over 100 police officers were on the streets of Sutton last weekend in a licensing operation.

In the largest and most concerted operation of its kind in the borough, nearly 300 licensed premises were visited in a push to tackle unlicensed activity.

Operation Condor targeted clubs, pubs, bars and restaurants as well as supermarkets, convenience stores, street traders and gambling venues.

Teams from the Metropolitan Police Service in Sutton were joined by Sutton Council licensing and trading standards teams as well as the UK Border Agency, Benefits Agency and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

Out of 277 visits to licensed premises, 37 breaches were reported.

Under-age customers were served alcohol 13 times, 15 arrests were made for drugs and public order offences, and 20 arrests were made by the UK Border Agency.

Sutton Police licensing Sergeant John Withersby said police and council licensing teams work very closely with licensed premises throughout the year to offer help and support.

He said: "This operation shows that we are prepared to back up this process of engagement with enforcement among all the relevant agencies to make sure licensed premises, traders and individuals are operating in a way that is expected of them."

Coun Graham Tope, Community Safety spokesman for Sutton Council said: "Sutton Council works closely with the police to make sure that local traders are operating safely and within the law.

"The vast majority of them are highly reputable but there are a few who are willing to risk the health and safety of our residents in order to make a quick profit."

Bob Gaiger, HMRC London spokesperson, said: "Alcohol and tobacco fraud harms honest businesses, costs jobs, and takes money away from public services. And, increasingly, it is run by highly organised criminal gangs.

"We are keen to work closely with local residents and communities in the fight against this type of crime and would encourage anyone who knows of someone selling cheap or duty free alcohol or tobacco to contact the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000 or email: customs.hotline@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk."