Gun Related Arrests In Luton

23 May 2013, 10:43 | Updated: 23 May 2013, 10:47

Bedfordshire Police have executed further warrants in connection with gun related crime in Luton and also recovered drugs, a firearm and ammunition.

The arrests took place yesterday afternoon (Wednesday) in Dale Road where a man and woman, both aged 29, were arrested and a large quantity of what is believed to be Class A drugs and cash were recovered. A 32-year-old man was also arrested at an address in Five Springs this morning (Thursday) on suspicion of the cultivation of cannabis.

Officer from the South Bedfordshire Serious Crime Team, based in Luton, also undertook a dawn raid at a property in Connaught Road and a 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder in connection with a shooting that happened on May 5 in Culverhouse Road / Fountains Road.

In addition a handgun was also forensically recovered yesterday after being found by litter pickers having been dumped in brambles in Hayling Drive. The weapon will now be examined for evidence and matched where possible to incidents where firearms have been discharged.

Today's arrests were carried out under Operation Boson, the force's investigation into gun related crime. DCI Dave Quarmby, who is leading the enquiries said: "Bedfordshire Police will continue to investigate gun related and is relentless in its pursuit of those committing violent crime. In order to turn these arrests into convictions however we need key witnesses to be brave and give us statements. Putting pen to paper could be the difference between locking people up behind bars and letting them go free to commit more crime, We have measures in place that can protect witnesses but we need to know who you are if we are to help you. Be brave and stand up against gun crime."

Police and Crime Commissioner Olly Martins said: "The verdict at last week's trial of Kyle Beckford showed the vital role courageous members of the public can and must continue to play. By working with the police the public can help end the recent spate of firearms incidents that are doing so much harm to our town."