Tube blitz on beggars, touts and pickpockets

Police today launched the first of a series of "blitz" raids to drive out pickpockets, beggars and other "anti-social elements" from the Tube in the run-up to Christmas.

British Transport Police are today targeting beggars on Central line stations between Queensway and Holborn, which police say are problem areas.

Inspector Mark McKevitt, in charge of Operation Bournville, said: "Women begging with children are of special concern to us."

Immigration officers will be working with the police as many beggars and pickpockets are believed to be immigrants or asylum seekers. The operation is being run in conjunction with Westminster council.

A mobile custody unit - the only one in London - will speed up the processing of those arrested.

More than 40 officers and 30 London Underground revenue control inspectors will also target ticket touts and fare dodgers.