Police seized a firearm allegedly used by two men who would lure independent sellers to locations across south London, then rob them of expensive goods.

Officers executed warrants at two addresses on Ribblesdale Road, Tooting, and Norbury Avenue, Thornton Heath, in the early hours of November 28.

Two men – both aged 21 – were arrested at each address on suspicion of robbery and possession of a firearm with intent to cause violence. Both remain in custody.

Officers recovered a handgun from a vehicle during the searches at Norbury Avenue – this will be sent for testing to confirm if it is a live weapon.

The raids were as a result of a linked series of three robberies committed across part of east and south London between September 29 and November 23.

The suspects would allegedly respond to for sale ads for items such as expensive mobile phones and then arrange to meet the victims, robbing them on arrival. 

Detective Inspector Andy Griffin from the South West CID said: “These arrests are the result of some fast-time investigative work following a series of robberies where violence was intimated and the victims genuinely feared for their safety.

“It is an example of great collaborative working from units across the MPS, including colleagues from South Area BCU, our firearms team and intelligence units. Two men have been arrested and our work will continue to ensure those involved face the legal consequences of their actions.”