Riots continue in London. While U.K. media tries to ignore the story, it is not for lack of interesting facts. 3,000 people were arrested! Find out why after the jump.
Emma RABID
Almost 3,000 people suspected of offences in London during the August riots have been arrested, according to new figures.
One of the Metropolitan Police officers leading the inquiry – which has now been in place for two months – described the investigation as “a marathon”.
Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Greany said Operation Withern consisted of “a strong robust team” looking for anyone involved in the riots and looting which spread across the capital, before affecting other areas of England.
Latest figures from Scotland Yard revealed that at least 2,952 suspects were arrested, with at least 1,774 charged. Some 317 have been sentenced, and 96 of those received custodial terms.A series of dawn raids took place in Hackney, north-east London on Friday, leading to arrests for violent disorder and burglary.
Shortly after 6am officers gathered in Hillside Road, Stamford Hill, where they smashed open the front door of a 22-year-old suspected rioter.
The man, who is believed to be part of a local gang, was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in Clarence Road, Hackney on August 8 and driven away in a police van.
Two other raids also took place in Hackney.
A 23-year-old man was arrested for violent disorder in the borough on August 8, and a boy, 17, was held on suspicion of burglary at a convenience store on the same date.
All three arrested males were taken to east London police stations where they remain in custody.
