Weapon crime sweep 'a success'

A month-long crackdown on the carrying of weapons on London streets netted five guns and led to 50 arrests for a range of offences, police said.

Operation Argon included police officers visiting clubs and pubs in the city to ensure bouncers were conducting appropriate security checks.

Police also stopped 80 suspect cars with links to people who are known to carry weapons.

During the operation, 11 clubs closed voluntarily to aid police efforts.

The clubs were asked to close for a short period of time after police received information about serious violence planned for their venue.

Det Ch Supt Helen Ball said firearms discharges in London were down 43% compared with 2007.

"By making venues harder and harder for criminals to get weapons into, and making it increasingly difficult for them drive around London, we are reducing the number of times guns are fired on our streets," she said.

In addition to exposing flaws with search procedures at clubs, police also found 13 unregistered bouncers working in city bars and clubs.

Those arrested face a range of charges including handling stolen goods, possession of offensive weapons, attempted murder and threats to kill.