Cops have arrested over 150 people accused of domestic, homophobic, race hate crime and other violence offences this morning in raids across the city. 153 were held over GBH, ABH, common assault and harassment as part of Operation Athena. The Met calls Operation Athena's stated aim are setting "out to transfer the fear onto violent offenders while encouraging more victims to come forward by increasing public confidence." Symbolic The blitz on London's prolific violent offenders comes on 'White Ribbon Day', a global campaign to challenge violence against women, and the first anniversary of the Forced Marriage Act. As well as tackling domestic violence, hate crime and the abuse of vulnerable adults, this year resources were focused on combating sexual offences and serious violence. A similar operation in May resulted in 336 people being arrested for similar offences. Commander Mark Simmons, the head of the Met's Violent Crime Directorate, said: "We are sending out a clear message to the men and women of violence that their behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We will arrest them and with the help of the Crown Prosecution Service prosecute them. Just as importantly we want vulnerable victims to be reassured that they will be protected and we are working with our partners to ensure their safety. "Today's activity is just one part of the Met's work to protect vulnerable victims and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice."
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