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I wanted to provide you with an update regarding dangerous driving and speeding, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. While out on patrol, officers from the Mitcham Safer Neighbourhood Team spotted a vehicle travelling from Cricket Green towards Figges Marsh that appeared to be moving noticeably faster than the rest of the traffic.
Due to the distance between officers and the vehicle at the time, the registration plate could not be seen. The vehicle then continued through red lights and onto a one-way road.
Not wanting to lose track of it, officers carried out a short patrol of the surrounding streets. Just as they were about to leave the area, the same vehicle appeared again travelling from London Road onto Raleigh Gardens.
This time officers managed to get in behind the vehicle. However, before officers could stop it, the driver suddenly cut across the junction through traffic and sped off down Western Road, clearly not keen on stopping for police.
A pursuit was authorised and officers began following the vehicle as the driver made several attempts to evade police. Additional resources including proactive officers and traffic units soon joined to assist.
After around 15 minutes, the pursuit came to an end when the vehicle collided with a member of the public’s vehicle. Thankfully no one was injured.
Officers quickly moved in and arrested the driver on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police.
And that wasn’t the end of the story…
A search of the vehicle revealed a large quantity of suspected herbal cannabis stored in an airtight bag, along with multiple cannabis vape canisters. The driver was therefore further arrested on suspicion of Possession With Intent to Supply Class B drugs.
A great example of local neighbourhood officers working alongside proactive and traffic teams to keep Mitcham’s roads and community safe.
👮‍♂️ We will continue carrying out patrols across Mitcham to tackle dangerous driving and drug-related crime.
 If someone is driving a motor vehicle, they should always be doing so in a safe and considerate manner. Even momentary lapses in judgement can have life changing or devastating consequences for those in the vehicle or innocent bystanders. Activities such as street racing, cruising or performing tricks can count as anti-social behaviour. If you are concerned about this in your area, visit our website for the latest guidance and how you can report this. You can also report dangerous driving in your area. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
