MPS launches first ever all-female operation to tackle robbery
The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has held its first ever all-female operation as part of series of events to mark International Women’s Day.
From the start of the late shift at 2pm on Saturday, March 6, all calls about robberies and other violent incidents were dealt with by a diverse team of 34 female officers.
Every role, from driving to processing prisoners and reviewing evidence, in plainclothes or in uniform, was performed by women. The team also included female special constables.
Acting Inspector Becky Perkins said: “It was important for me to bring together lots of different women from various departments to truly showcase our capabilities.
“We have women of all ages, backgrounds and cultures working at the Met who have come together for this operation to further highlight the diversity within our service.”
A number of stop and searches led to an arrest for possession with intent to supply a Class B drug during the shift.
It also included the arrests of a man for a violent offence and a woman for criminal damage, a spokesperson said.
A/Insp Perkins said the all-female operation “allowed officers to not only feel empowered in their current roles but to feel inspired to advance their careers further”.
She added: “What I have found personally is that those that have taken part were really excited to do so and are proud of being a pivotal part of helping keep London safe.”
The MPS, which has been led by Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick since 2017, currently has 32,455 police officers – of whom 9,096 are female.
