Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Craig Mackey, spoke today about the Met’s commitment to tackling knife crime in the capital following the murders of four young people over the New Year period.

He said: “Millions of Londoners celebrated New Year’s Eve peacefully and safely, but four families who lost loves ones in violent circumstances got the worst news imaginable and our thoughts remain with them and everyone affected by what has taken place.

“This number of violent deaths in any 24-hour period is highly unusual, and detectives are working around the clock to bring those responsible to justice.

“We have made arrests in two of these cases, with active lines of enquiry in each of the investigations being pursued. We would urge anybody who has any information about these murders that might assist detectives to contact police.

“Tackling serious violence and knife crime in London remains a number one priority for the Met, but Londoners need to pull together to tackle this issue.

“From community weapon sweeps, proactive operations that happen daily and engagement with schools, Met officers are working 24 hours a day, 365 days a year as part of our firm commitment to reducing knife crime amongst young people. The success of Operation Winter Nights saw more than 350 weapons seized in November and December.”