The Metropolitan Police has arrested 230 people and seized more than 1,000 stolen phones during a week-long crackdown on London's £50million-a-year trade in stolen mobiles.

The operation specifically targeted those responsible for theft, handling and onward criminal supply of smartphones across the capital.

The coordinated action focused on hotspot areas across London, particularly the West End and Westminster, where nearly 40% of phone thefts take place.