Shootings: Men Arrested
21 May 2013, 10:41 | Updated: 21 May 2013, 10:45
Two men have been arrested over a shooting in Luton that saw a 16 year old shot in the back.
The teenager is still in hospital with 'life-changing injuries' following the shooting in Thricknells Close, Marsh Farm, in the early hours of Saturday 11 May 2013.
It's one of ten shootings there have been in Luton since the start of 2013.
Armed officers executed the warrants at 6am on Tuesday 21 May and arrested the suspects aged 18 and 24 from properties in Glaisdale and Cannon Lane respectively. Searches were also carried out at addresses in Ackworth Crescent and Pomeroy Grove during which a quantity of what is believed to be Class A drugs was recovered.
The incidents in the west of the town are believed to be connected and are being coordinated and investigated by DCI Dave Quarmby from the Beds, Cambs and Herts Major Crime Unit under the codename Operation Boson.
He said: “Each arrest is significant as it sends a clear and vital message that Bedfordshire Police will not tolerate gun crime on our streets and we are fully committed to tackling this problem head on in a proactive and robust way. We still need the people involved to put pen to paper in order that we can detect and bring to an end this increase in violence that the town is currently experiencing.”
“By co-ordinating all the firearm related investigations in this way we continue to build better intelligence and information about who is carrying guns and intensify our resolve to arrest and bring to justice those involved. As you know, we will do this much more quickly if we have the support of our local community.”
"I will remind everyone that we have measures in place to assist those in coming forward if they feel scared or vulnerable. A cash reward also remains in place for anyone who can give information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in gun crime.”
Luton Borough Council Leader Hazel Simmons added: “The carrying and use of weapons in Luton will not be tolerated. We appeal to anyone involved or considering violence to consider how these crimes ruin lives and reflect badly on the town that we know and love. Luton Borough Council will do everything it can to help the police stamp out this activity and bring those responsible to justice.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Bedfordshire Police on 101, or text information to 07786 200011. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.