Operation Zerda – Proactive patrols minimizing theft & robbery at London stations

British Transport Police carries out proactive operations across London to prevent crime and reassure passengers and staff about the safety of the railway.

At stations across the London Boroughs of Islington, Haringey, Enfield and Waltham Forest, officers use Operation Zerda to keep robbery, theft and other violent crime on the railway at its minimum.

They use a mix of uniformed and plain clothed officers, dogs and metal detection arches, and often work with the Metropolitan Police and Transport for London (TfL).

Inspector Dan Rushall, station commander for the area, said: “Weekly operations like this keep us on the front foot and help ensure crime is kept at a minimum across the rail network.

“When lockdown measures are eventually eased and millions each year begin to use Finsbury Park and its surrounding stations, these operations will help further ensure passengers can travel safely and peacefully.

“They are also essential for supporting our colleagues in the railway industry, ensuring frontline staff can work without interruption, but with the knowledge that when incidents do occur, there are officers on hand, ready to respond, and able to deal with offences quickly.”

The crux of the operation is reassurance, showing staff and the public the work in place that helps keep the railway secure – officers are routinely engaging with TfL staff to hear and act upon emerging issues, trends and concerns.

These proactive patrols also prevent crime and have led to the apprehension of criminals wanted for offences on and off the railway in London.

Since Friday 15 January officers have made 27 arrests for a range of offences, 10 of which were for theft and robbery.

Officers have also engaged with passengers, advising on the current Covid legislation.