200+ gang suspects nabbed in London

LONDON, June 12 (UPI) -- London authorities said more than 200 suspected gang members were arrested Friday in a massive operation targeting youth violence.

Scotland Yard said Operation Blunt 2, which targeted knife crimes, resulted in more than 200 youths and adults being arrested for crimes including robbery, serious assault, violent disorder, aggravated burglary and the supply of controlled drugs, The Times of London reported Friday.

The operation, which involved hundreds of officers from Scotland Yard, the Territorial Support Group, the Specialist Dogs' Unit, Operation Payback and the U.K. Border Agency, also resulted in the seizure of a firearm, three dangerous dogs and property believed to be the proceeds of crime, including nearly $140,000 cash.

"We know that street gangs often play a part in violent attacks on young people. Individuals affiliated to gangs are cowardly, acting in packs and using weapons to target and intimidate others," said Cmdr. Mark Simmons, the leader of Operation Blunt 2.

"Through intelligence we have identified the individuals we believe are causing the greatest amount of harm. We have targeted a number of gangs intent upon causing misery. This operation builds upon that work by focusing on violent offenders, some of whom are gang members, with the intention of arresting them for various offenses and placing them before the courts."