The Metropolitan Police has issued a statement after a large officer presence was seen in Thamesmead.

Residents on social media reported seeing armed officers, tents, and dogs searching Southmere Park at 5.30am today (December 21).

Officers confirmed that it is part of an operation to remove weapons from the streets of London.

The action will also be taking place across Greenwich which is expected to last until tomorrow (December 22).

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Officers from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, working with internal partners, are executing searches at locations in the Royal Borough of Greenwich today, Wednesday, 21 December.

“The planned action is as a result of the Met’s drive to remove weapons from the streets of London.

“We thank the community for their support whilst we carry out this activity.

“The operation is expected to last until Thursday, 22 December.”