Home Secretary Announces Measures to Tackle Gangs

The UK Home Secretary has revealed a new strategy to combat organised crime, as it was disclosed that there are approximately 59,000 gang members causing havoc across the country and draining billions from the nation's economy annually. Cabinet Minister James Cleverly has emphasized the importance of dismantling these criminal networks and highlighted the government's commitment to doubling funding for disrupting people smugglers and investing in policing.

New Policing Tactic to be Implemented

As part of the crackdown, a new policing tactic called "Clear, Hold, Build" will be rolled out to every police force in England and Wales by next spring. This three-step approach involves initial enforcement to dismantle criminal networks, ensuring ongoing safety, and empowering communities to address the root causes of crime.

Banning Items Used by Criminal Gangs

The proposed Criminal Justice Bill will grant new powers to ban items used by criminal gangs, including 3D printed firearms components. This measure aims to disrupt the activities of these networks and prevent them from acquiring dangerous weapons.

Investment and Support for Police

The UK government will provide an additional £5 million to support police efforts in combatting organised immigration crime. This funding will enhance the response of the National Police Chiefs' Council's Modern Slavery and Organised Immigration Crime Unit. The government is committed to tackling the widespread impact of organised crime, which affects individuals across the country.

Addressing Serious and Organised Crime

According to the National Crime Agency, there are at least 59,000 individuals involved in serious and organised crime in the UK. The economic cost of these criminal activities is estimated to be at least £47 billion annually. Home Secretary James Cleverly stressed the importance of dismantling these criminal networks, which he described as dealing only in "human misery". He emphasized that this crackdown is a vital part of the government's mission to protect the country from the destructive impact of organised crime.