The External Scrutiny Committee of Redbridge Council met on Monday 6 July 2026 to discuss police abstractions, the Metropolitan Police's Tough Choices update, and crime performance. The committee also reviewed the forward plan for future meetings.

Metropolitan Police Update

Acting Superintendent Mo Mahmood and Inspector Matthew Ross from the Metropolitan Police presented an update on police abstractions, the impact of the MPS Tough Choices programme, and local crime performance.

Police Abstractions and Resourcing: A significant portion of the discussion focused on police abstractions, which refer to officers being deployed outside of their usual borough. It was noted that Redbridge is in the bottom quarter of boroughs most impacted by abstractions, meaning it is among the top 15 boroughs experiencing officers being deployed elsewhere. This is attributed to significant national and local events, including protests, national security incidents, and the need to support large-scale events. The Metropolitan Police faces a £125 million funding gap, leading to difficult decisions and a shrinking organisation, which may impact local delivery and partnership work.

In response to concerns about the impact on local policing, officers explained that they are using data and community feedback to focus resources. They are also working more closely with the council to maximise visibility. The loss of specific roles, such as licensing officers and faith officers, has necessitated a more dynamic approach, with ward teams building relationships directly with faith venues and local communities. New technology, including facial recognition and rearward facial recognition, is being employed to improve efficiency and speed up investigations.

Crime Performance: The committee received a generally positive update on crime performance. Overall neighbourhood crime has seen a 10% reduction compared to the previous year, and a 55% reduction over two years. Specific crime types showing notable reductions include antisocial behaviour (down 20% in the last reporting period and 50% over two years), and robbery (down 33% year-to-date and 58% over two years). These improvements are attributed to proactive problem-solving, increased use of Community Protection Orders and Criminal Behaviour Orders, and a focus on persistent offenders.

Operation Burley, targeting theft from person offences in Ilford Town Centre, resulted in over 26 convictions. Shoplifting is also being tackled more robustly, with efforts to build cases for tougher sentences and secure Criminal Behaviour Orders. The use of smart DNA technology in shops and proceeds of crime money has helped identify where stolen goods are being sold. Drug operations have also led to significant disruption and lengthy prison sentences for those involved in Class A and Class B drug supply.

However, challenges remain, particularly with vehicle crime, where progress is being made but lower-end offences are still a concern. Retail crime has seen reductions in some areas, with a significant increase in positive outcome rates. Business robbery has remained stable, with a 7% reduction.

Hate Crime: Councillor Begham raised concerns about a 19% increase in hate crime. Officers acknowledged this trend, noting it is a pan-London issue partly linked to global events, leading to opportunistic street crime. They are working with faith venues to review security and engaging with the Home Office's SAFER scheme. Proactive work with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is also underway to ensure positive outcomes in hate crime cases. Efforts are being made to raise awareness of hate crime reporting channels.

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs): The enforcement of PSPOs, particularly concerning street harassment of women and young girls, was discussed. It was noted that since the launch of a PSPO, 14 to 18 individuals have been fined, and there has been a 26% reduction in low-level public order offences like harassment and verbal abuse. The police are also exploring the use of a new offence for public order sexual harassment, which may be more appropriate than a PSPO in some cases. The renewal of an ASB-focused PSPO in the west of the borough was discussed, with officers explaining that the decision to implement a PSPO rests with the local authority and requires a strong body of evidence of public disorder on the streets.

Forward Plan: The committee reviewed its forward plan, which includes future discussions on Transport for London's statutory duties on cleaning land, further updates from the police and Environment Agency on river water quality and pollution, and discussions with Thames Water on service updates and water pollution. The possibility of including a discussion on bus performance was raised.

Other Matters: The election of Councillor Emma Shepherd-Mallinson as Vice Chair was confirmed. Public question time had no registered speakers. The committee noted the need for a report on Central Line performance and renewal.