The Met’s burglary squad and local policing team have charged four men and a woman linked to an organised crime gang in relation to 57 cases of residential burglary offences across South West London. We have also launched an appeal to trace an additional suspect.
Met officers are appealing to the public for further information to track down 22-year-old Eric Andrews of no fixed abode. Andrews was last seen in the Kingston area, and is described as white, with long brown hair tied back and short dark facial hair.
Residents reported an increase in stolen bikes across the South West London area. They noticed their bikes, some worth up to £10,000, were advertised for sale online after being stolen, potentially generating criminal profits.
The offences were reported to have taken place between March and December 2023.
Piecing together evidence, Met specialist crime officers worked closely with the local proactive policing team. On 21 March the Met’s burglary squad and local officers executed six warrants and three suspects were arrested and subsequently charged.
Following further investigative work, two more suspects were identified and charged in connection with the burglaries.
All five have appeared in court.
In addition, a 22-year-old man turned themselves in at Wandsworth Police Station, and was later bailed pending further enquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Dan O’Sullivan, who is leading the investigation, said: “Listening to local residents, tackling violent crime and reducing burglary, are all priorities in our ‘A New Met for London’ plan.
“I would like to thank the victims for reporting these crimes to our local police team who then worked to deliver a precise and targeted operation to track down these suspects
“We now encourage the public to help us locate the outstanding suspect. If you recognise Eric Andrews or have seen him, then please come forward. Any information, no matter how small can help our investigation.”
Anyone with information which could assist this investigation can help by calling 101 and referencing case number 01/WW/10868/24, or calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
