Metropolitan Police Pull Off Incredible Fake Hip-Hop Store Bust
Thursday, 15 September 2011
Written by Elliott Batte
One of the most remarkable police operations in recent times was undertaken in London through the past couple of years, after cops set up a fake hip-hop and grime record store and encouraged criminal customers to use their backroom for illegal activities.
A crack team of policemen learned as much as they could about the genre of music and the culture surrounding it, until they were comfortable enough to set-up a store, called ‘Boombox’, in Edmonton, London. It was all part of Operation Peyzac, a sting set up following five probably gang-related murders in 2008. The undercover cops involved were at high-risk if their cover was blown, and had to get their slang, accents, knowledge and taste absolutely perfect before they could gain the trust of the hardened criminals that used the shop.
The £500,000 scheme resulted in the arrest of 37 people, 34 of which were jailed for a total of 400 years. 30 of those imprisoned turned out to be gang-members. Police recovered an alarming number of illegal items from the homes of the criminals including weapons like guns, swords, knives, and a taser as well as uncovering a workshop that could convert broken or replica guns into fully-functioning weapons. Also confiscated were large amounts of drugs and cash.
The sting is one of the most flamboyant and elaborate in recent British history, with the idea something more akin to a Quentin Tarantino film rather than by the metropolitan police force. And, while some may consider the act to be entrapment or unfair, a lot of criminals were put behind bars and Detective Chief Inspector Paul Harwood was particularly pleased with the op.
“Operation Peyzac is seen as one of the most innovative and successful covert operations run by the Met,” said Harwood. “This is down to the bravery and dedication of the undercover officers. My investigation team worked relentlessly to ensure the success of the operation and, due to the strength of evidence gathered and produced by the officers, 34 of the defendants pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity.
“Twenty-one firearms were recovered and it was clear that those selling the firearms had no regard as to who they were selling to or for what reason.”
What do you think of the extraordinary operation? Tell us in the comments section below.
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