London police have reported a major enforcement operation targeting robbery and theft across central parts of the capital, with 187 people arrested and 157 vehicles seized during the campaign.

The operation, led by the Metropolitan Police, focused particularly on areas where offenders were allegedly using mopeds and e-bikes to carry out thefts and quickly escape from crime scenes. Officers conducted both uniformed and plain-clothes patrols in locations identified as crime hotspots.

According to the Metropolitan Police, specialist officers were able to respond rapidly when thefts were reported. Police also used tracking technology to follow stolen mobile phones and assist officers in locating suspects.

The operation ran from February through July and produced a noticeable reduction in certain types of e-bike-related crime. Police said such offences declined by 22 percent in the areas targeted during the operation.

Weapons and Drug Offences Also Detected

The arrests were not limited to robbery and theft cases. Police said the operation also resulted in arrests connected with alleged weapons and drug offences.

In one case, officers stopped a teenager riding a moped reportedly linked to a phone theft. A knife was subsequently recovered during a search, and the teenager was charged with driving offences and possession of an offensive weapon.

In another incident, officers detained a man wanted in connection with robbery allegations after he allegedly rode an illegal e-bike toward police. Several mobile phones were reportedly recovered, with some wrapped in material that police said was intended to interfere with tracking technology.

Police Report Broader Reduction in Theft

The Metropolitan Police said the crackdown forms part of a wider strategy aimed at reducing robbery, theft and violent crime in London.

Police reported that theft of personal belongings and mobile phones had fallen during 2026, while robbery figures had also declined. Authorities have also intensified efforts against illegal and modified e-bikes and e-scooters being used on London’s roads.

The Metropolitan Police said more than 2,500 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters had been seized during the year.

Focus on High-Risk Locations

Central London attracts large numbers of residents, commuters and tourists, making busy streets and transport hubs potential targets for thieves. Police operations have therefore concentrated on locations where offenders are believed to exploit crowded environments.

Areas including Westminster, Waterloo and London Bridge have received particular attention as part of the wider response.

Continuing Efforts Against Street Crime

The latest arrests demonstrate the police strategy of combining targeted patrols, specialist officers and technology to tackle mobile-phone theft and robbery.

While arrests alone do not eliminate crime, authorities say disrupting repeat offenders and removing vehicles used in offences can make it more difficult for criminal groups to operate.

The Metropolitan Police has indicated that similar enforcement activity will continue as officers work to reduce robbery, theft and related offences across London.