‘We Will Drive These Thugs Out of Our High Streets’: Havering Leader Praises Police After Hornchurch Boots Arrests

24th July 202624th July 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Councillor Kieth Prince, HJTF, Hornchurch, Robbery min read

Havering Council Leader, Councillor Keith Prince AM, has praised the outstanding work of the Havering Joint Task Force after officers arrested five suspects within 15 minutes of a brazen robbery at Boots in Hornchurch.

Led by Sergeant Tanner, the Havering Joint Task Force quickly identified the vehicle believed to have been used in the robbery, intercepted it on Southend Road and arrested all five suspects. Officers also recovered perfume believed to be worth just under £10,000, with all of the stolen items returned to the Hornchurch store.

The swift response has once again highlighted the work carried out by the Havering Joint Task Force, which continues to tackle serious crime and antisocial behaviour across the borough.

Councillor Keith Prince AM praised the officers involved and thanked the Council-funded Section 92 police officers for their rapid response.

He said:

“We are grateful to our Council-funded S92 police officers for their swift response and for arresting the perpetrators of the dreadful robbery in Hornchurch High Street.

“The footage from the incident was shocking and totally unacceptable. Our town centres should be safe places for residents, visitors and businesses. We are hell bent on clamping down on this type of crime and antisocial behaviour and I want to reassure residents – together with our fantastic local police colleagues – we will drive these thugs out of our high streets whatever it takes.

“We are pleased that no staff members or members of the public were injured and will continue to work closely with the police and local businesses to help keep Havering’s communities safe.”

The professionalism and speed shown by Sergeant Tanner and his team ensured the suspects were located in less than half an hour, bringing what could have been a lengthy investigation to a swift conclusion.

Their work has earned praise from both the council and members of the public, with the Havering Joint Task Force continuing to play a key role in tackling crime and protecting businesses across the borough.

It was another example of proactive policing at its best, demonstrating the difference that dedicated neighbourhood officers can make when responding quickly to crime.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!