300 ULEZ cameras attacked by 'Blade Runners' ahead of new London traffic scheme
Police have reported nearly 300 crimes committed against London's ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) camera by vigilantes who oppose the massive expansion of Sadiq Khan's new London traffic scheme expanded to cover the M25.
Theself-proclaimed 'Blade Runners' have been targeting enforcement cameras installed by Transport for London (TfL), often resorting to cutting the cameras' wires or even removing the devices entirely.
As part of the scheme's expansion, some 2,750 cameras are being installed in new areas that will fall under the zone's jurisdiction once it extends to cover the entirety of the capital from August 29.
The Metropolitan Police sprung into action in April following reports from TfL about criminal damage to, and theft of, these cameras. As of August 1, the force has recorded a staggering 288 crimes related to Ulez cameras.
This tally includes 185 instances of cable damage, 164 stolen cameras, and 38 cases of cameras being obscured. It's worth noting that multiple offences can be linked to a single camera, such as a cable being cut followed by the camera being stolen.
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Commander Owain Richards of the Metropolitan Police expressed his concern over these incidents, stating: "These are clearly unacceptable acts of criminality and we have a team of officers investigating and identifying those responsible."
He assured the public that the force is providing a proportionate policing response, balancing these incidents against the wide range of operational demand and crime they must respond to across London.
In a bid to combat the rising incidents of camera damage and theft, authorities are working hand in glove with Transport for London. Not only are they investigating offences already committed, but they're also brainstorming new strategies to safeguard further cameras from vandalism or theft.
The focus is on continual review and adaptation of their efforts over the coming weeks, ensuring that the service provided meets the expectations of Londoners.
This week saw images surfacing of Ulez cameras and their wires being fortified with additional protection, including black metal boxes.
Scotland Yard has released an image of a man they wish to identify in relation to four camera offences in Hillingdon, Harrow, and Uxbridge on June 17.
The public is urged to assist by calling police on 101 or contacting the force's Twitter account, now known as X, at @MetCC. For those wishing to provide information anonymously, they can reach out to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the crimestoppers-uk.org website.
Vehicles failing to meet minimum emissions standards are subject to a £12.50 daily fee when used in the Ulez zone, or they risk being fined.
According to TfL, nine out of 10 cars seen driving in outer London on an average day comply with the Ulez standards. However, RAC figures reveal that more than 690,000 licensed cars in London are likely non-compliant.
These figures do not account for other types of vehicles or those entering London from neighbouring counties.
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In a show of unity against the Ulez expansion, motorcyclists are set to make their voices heard by riding en masse on the M25 this Sunday.
The bikers will assemble at six strategic locations on the fringes of the capital before making their way to Surrey's iconic Box Hill in a powerful display of opposition.
London's Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has previously characterised his decision to broaden the Ulez area as "very difficult". Despite the backlash, he remains steadfast in his belief that the move will result in "five million more Londoners being able to breathe cleaner air".
* This article was crafted with the help of an AI tool, which speeds up The Mirror's editorial research. An editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors to [email protected]
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