Six teenagers have been arrested by British Transport Police (BTP) after a series of overnight raids targeting violent robberies on London’s rail network.
The teenagers, aged 15 to 17, were arrested on suspicion of robbery, attempted robbery, and theft connected to dozens of incidents over the last year. All six have been bailed until October.
At 3am on Wednesday, 16 July, around 60 officers from BTP’s Operational Support Unit carried out raids at four addresses in East London. Officers later attended the homes of two other teenagers linked to the same investigation, known as Operation Flycatcher.
Between April 2024 and March 2025, BTP figures show that 72% of known robbery offenders on the rail network were aged 18 or under. Police say that many are repeat offenders, with over 100 individuals committing multiple robberies within the same year.
Just days after Operation Flycatcher, officers carried out further action across the capital, arresting another 13 teenagers on suspicion of robbery, attempted robbery, theft, and possession of an offensive weapon.
Chief Inspector Nick Brandon said: “The public’s safety is our number one priority, and we work tirelessly throughout the year and around the clock to keep the travelling public safe.
“The ages of the offenders is extremely concerning, and we hope that seeing other kids face the consequences of their actions will turn some would-be robbers away from a life of criminality.
“We have one offender who, in the last policing year, is linked to 19 separate robbery offences. This is why we encourage every victim of robbery, or those who have seen a robbery take place, to report it to us.
“Every report we receive can help to direct our patrols to where they are most needed to keep the public safe, so if you need us talk to a member of staff or an officer, or text us on 61016.
“Our message is clear; if you commit a robbery on the railway network and seek to profit at the detriment of others, we will do everything in our power to secure justice for the victims.”
Police are urging anyone who witnesses a robbery or feels unsafe on the rail network to contact them. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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