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- Bike accidents increase amid London Tube strikes | News UK
- US big game hunter killed by elephants while hunting in Gabon
- Swedish diplomat charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents
- EU leaders discuss mutual defence strategy amid growing NATO concerns.
- US soldier charged for betting on Venezuelan leader Maduro’s capture
- Video Captures ‘Albanian Crime Gang Raiding Cannabis Farm’ | News UK
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Bike accidents increase amid London Tube strikes | News UK
3:00 pm
Get you up to speed: Bike accidents increase amid London Tube strikes | News UK
CYCLE SAFETY CONCERNS
London Ambulance Service reported a 46% increase in road traffic collisions involving bicycles amid a surge in cycling during recent Tube strikes.
London Ambulance Service reported a 46% increase in road traffic collisions involving bicycles amid a surge in cycling during recent Tube strikes.
TRANSPORT SAFETY
London Ambulance Service reported a 46% increase in bike-related road traffic incidents this week, coinciding with the Tube drivers’ strike, raising safety concerns.
London Ambulance Service reported a 46% increase in bike-related road traffic incidents this week, coinciding with the Tube drivers’ strike, raising safety concerns.
INCREASE IN CYCLING
More than 16,000 riders crossed the Embankment cycle lane, indicating a significant rise in cycling during the Tube strikes, according to reports from TfL.
More than 16,000 riders crossed the Embankment cycle lane, indicating a significant rise in cycling during the Tube strikes, according to reports from TfL.
What we know so far
Commuters in London saw a significant surge in cycling during the recent Tube strikes, but this influx has also led to an increase in road traffic incidents. The Tube drivers’ strikes officially concluded at midday, although disruptions are expected to persist until the evening.
According to the London Ambulance Service, there were 44 road traffic collisions involving bicycles, push bikes, and e-bikes between Tuesday and Thursday, marking a 46% increase compared to the same period last year. The rise in incidents accompanies a boom in cycling, with nearly 4,000 riders crossing the Embankment cycle lane before 9am yesterday—compared to a typical daily average of around 252 cyclists.
Transport for London (TfL) has noted a commitment to expanding the Cycleways network to accommodate the growing demand. A spokesperson stated that efforts are underway to improve road safety and increase accessibility to high-quality cycle routes. The TfL plan includes investing over £150 million annually for active travel programmes, with ambitions to increase the cycle network to reach 40% of Londoners by 2030.
Simon Munk from the London Cycling Campaign emphasised the necessity for improved infrastructure, stating, “We need more routes, we need more capacity.” The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is reportedly working closely with TfL to enhance the cycling infrastructure across the capital.
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Crashes involving bikes surge during London Tube strikes | News UK
London has looked more like Amsterdam during the Tube strikes with thousands more cycling, but there have also been more incidents on the roads this week.
Londoners can let out a sigh of relief as the last wave of Tube drivers’ strikes officially wrapped up at midday, although disruption will linger until the evening.
Cycling has boomed this week as commuters relied on bikes to navigate the disruption, enabling strikelists to overcome the worst of it.
Cycle lanes have been full to the brim with beginner strikelists and experienced riders coexisting with traffic and pedestrians in the controlled chaos that is London.
The Embankment tally had clocked almost 4,000 riders before 9am yesterday, compared with around 252 cyclists on an average day.
Rise in ambulance crash callouts
Figures from the London Ambulance Service given to WTX suggest there has been a rise in incidents involving bikes this week.
There were 44 road traffic collisions involving bicycles, push bikes and e-bikes between Tuesday and Thursday this week, compared with 30 incidents logged by call handlers in the same period last week – around 46% increase.
Have you felt safe travelling during the Tube strike?
Last year, between Tuesday, April 22, and Thursday, April 24, emergency call handlers recorded 31 bike-related incidents.
However, there has also been a surge in the number of cyclists. Also, the figures do not detail whether the incidents involved another bike, a pedestrian or a motor vehicle.
Latest London news
To get the latest news from the capital, visit WTX’s London news hub.
There were 1.5 million daily bike journeys across London last year, according to TfL. Its survey of cyclists showed that 76% of people using Cycleways felt safe.
While London now has 267 miles of cycle lanes, campaigners have warned that the network is over capacity.
Simon Munk, the London Cycling Campaign’s head of campaigns, told WTX: ‘We are seeing the numbers going up from the strike and people cycling, and we are seeing a lot of cycle tracks at over capacity.’
E-bike use increase during Tube strike
Rental e-bikes have also recorded a rise in usage this week.
Lime said it saw a 23% increase in Lime trips on Wednesday, and a 22% rise on Thursday compared with the same time last week. On Wednesday, trip lengths increased by 20%, suggesting that riders used the bikes for their entire commute, the company said.
Forest said it experienced a 50% increase in rides during Wednesday rush hour between 7am and 8am compared with last week, and a 35% rise during the afternoon rush hour.
When WTX approached Forest, it said that despite the increase in rides this week, it has not seen a rise in incidents. Forest said that all new users complete an in-app safety training before riding and it also runs safety initiatives to educate riders.
Lime declined to comment.
He said the boom of cyclists during the strikes will be the average in London in a couple of years.
He continued: ‘For cycling to be a mainstream mode of transport, which it clearly now is capable of doing, we need more routes, we need more capacity, and we need the boroughs and TfL to get on and deliver that.’
‘We need Paris. We need the mayor of London to act like the mayor of Paris does.’
A TfL spokesperson said: “‘Walking and cycling are vital to a sustainable transport network, and we’re committed to ensuring Londoners have access to a safe, high‑quality, joined‑up cycle network. Since 2016, the network has grown from 90km to over 431km, meaning 27 per cent of Londoners now live within 400m of a high‑quality cycle route.
‘We recognise that disruption such as Tube strikes can encourage more people to try cycling, reinforcing the need to continue expanding the Cycleways network and making London’s roads safer for everyone. TfL’s Safe and Healthy Streets investment programme commits over £150m each year in our business plan to make active and sustainable travel safer – including £94.8m allocated to London boroughs for 2026/27 for safety projects and new cycle routes on their roads.
‘Our ambition is for the Cycleways network to reach 40 per cent of Londoners by 2030, and we remain focused on expanding it so even more Londoners can choose cycling safely and confidently.’
A spokesperson for the mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: ‘The Mayor is working closely with TfL to ensure London has the quality infrastructure needed to safely meet growing demand, as cycling becomes increasingly popular across the capital.
‘The Mayor remains committed to further improving road safety through his Vision Zero Action Plan, which aims to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network.’
US big game hunter killed by elephants while hunting in Gabon
2:00 pm
Get you up to speed: US big game hunter killed by elephants while hunting in Gabon
Ernie Dosio was killed by five elephants while hunting for a yellow backed duiker in the Lope area of Gabon. He was 75 years old and had a vast collection of exotic animal heads in trophy rooms back in the US.
Ernie Dosio, a 75-year-old big game hunter, was killed by five elephants during a hunt in Gabon while pursuing a yellow backed duiker. According to a statement from the safari company Collect Africa, the incident involved Dosio’s professional hunter being attacked first and sustaining injuries, which left Dosio vulnerable to the elephants’ charge.
Ernie Dosio’s body is being repatriated to Lodi, California, by the US Embassy in Gabon. The hunting company Collect Africa confirmed the incident and stated that the matter is being handled by the US Embassy and Dosio’s family.
Millionaire big game hunter trampled to death by herd of five elephants | News World
Ernie Dosio was killed while on a hunt in Gabon (Picture: wagonhoundoutfitters.com)
A millionaire US big game hunter was ambushed and killed by five elephants whilst hunting a small forest antelope.
Ernie Dosio, who owns a vast collection of exotic animal heads in trophy rooms back home, was trampled to death while on a hunt in the Lope area of Gabon.
The 75-year-old was being guided by a professional hunter in thick forest on a £30,000 stalk of a yellow backed duiker.
The vineyard owner has hunted elephants, leopard, rhino, buffalo and lion across Africa and back home in the US he has hunted almost every species of wild deer.
But his luck ran out last Friday when his hunt stumbled into a herd of five big elephant cows with a calf.
The startled elephant herd immediately charged Dosio and his professional hunter.
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The vineyard owner has hunted elephants, leopard, rhino, buffalo and lion across Africa and back home in the US (Picture: Bobby Hansen Hunting Safaris)
Mr Dosio posing with a lion he shot and killed (Picture: bobbyhansensafaris.com)
The elephants were so well hidden in the dense undergrowth they appeared ‘as if from nowhere’ and the professional with the high-powered rifle was just flung aside.
He was seriously injured and lost his gun in the thick bush as the elephants attacked the terrified hunter with just a shotgun who was then brutally trampled underfoot.
A retired game hunter in Cape Town who knows the victim said: ‘Ernie has been hunting since he could hold a rifle and has many trophies from Africa and the US.
‘Although many disagree with big game hunting all Ernie’s hunts were strictly licensed and above board and were registered as conservation in culling animal numbers.
Mr Dosio owns a vast collection of exotic animal heads in trophy rooms back home
(Picture: Supplied to Jamie Pyatt News Ltd)
‘Ernie had booked a hunt for dwarf forest buffalo and duikers, in particular the yellow backed duiker, and under strict licensing laws he could not take along his own guns.
‘The hunting company would supply a shotgun and cartridges for the duiker hunt.
‘Whilst in the forest Ernie and his PH (professional hunter) surprised 5 forest elephant cows with young and feeling under threat the elephants immediately attacked them.
‘The professional hunter was attacked first and seriously injured losing his rifle which was knocked from him and lost in the undergrowth leaving Ernie with his shotgun.
‘I would rather not go into detail but it is safe to assume it would have been quick.
‘Ernie was a very well-known and popular hunter in the US and in Africa and a very keen conservationist and he did a hell of a lot of charity work and was a really good guy.
‘What happened has been deeply felt by many each side of the Atlantic,’ he said.
Dosio’s body is being repatriated by the US Embassy in Gabon to Lodi in California.
Gabon is known as Africa’s last Eden with 88% of its 100,000 square mile territory covered by forest and it is home to 60% of the world’s remaining forest elephants.
There are some 50,000 of them hidden deep in the dense forests of the country once famed for its pygmies which is now one of the richest in Africa per capita income.
Dosio was hunting for the rare yellow backed duiker which is a shy forest dwelling antelope first discovered by an English botanist in 1815 with short 8” horns.
He also had a licence allowing him to hunt dwarf forest buffalo in Gabon.
The safari company Collect Africa confirmed a client had been killed on April 17 in a brief statement saying he and and his PH had encountered the elephants during a hunt in Central Gabon.
It said the professional hunter was injured after the pair encountered 5 cow elephants while hunting for yellow backed duiker and that unfortunately their client had been killed.
It said the matter was being handled by the US Embassy and his family in California.
The US Embassy in Gabon said that a media reply could take ‘several days’ to process through state apartments.
Dosio lived with long term partner Betty in a detached 4-bed home on the outskirts of Lodi 30 miles south of Sacramento in the heart of the California wine growing region.
The father-of-two was the owner of Pacific AgriLands Inc which has its own 12,000 acre vineyard in Modesto but specialises in providing management for local wine farms.
Son Jeff is President of the highly successful company which also supplies custom vine harvesting equipment throughout the region which produces 40% of Californian wines.
His other son Blake is also a farmer and believed to work in the thriving family business which supports most of the local vineyards including world famous E & J Gallo wines.
Ernie was a mainstay in the Sacramento Safari Club and a life member of hunting group California Wildfowl and on the board of the local Lodi Winegrape Commission.
He also held the post of Great Elk in the Californian Central District Elks, which is a charitable group made up of 1900 lodges with 750,000 members throughout the US.
The Elks are made up of patriotic American citizens known for its many philanthropic programs which support military veterans, youth scholarships and disaster relief.
Lodi Lodge secretary Tommy Whitman said in a Facebook statement yesterday: ‘It is with a most heavy heart and sadness that I am reporting the passing of Ernio Dosio.
‘May all of our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones. Ernie was Great Elk for 30 years and a pillar in our community who will be sorely missed.’
He added afterwards: ‘Ernie always had his hand in his pocket and would help out those who needed it be it war veterans or handicapped or underprivileged kids.
‘He would never want recognition but he was always there with a loving heart.
‘Ernie’s passion was hunting and he spent much of his time either hunting here in the USA or in Africa and most of his trophies are on display at his own trophy rooms.
‘He will be really missed around here and was one of the real good guys,’ he said.
A representative of Pacific AgriLand inc said: ‘Nobody here at present is available to speak. That has to be down to his son Jeff when he is ready to say something to you.
‘Ernie was very popular and Jeff is taking many calls as you can well imagine. It is a huge tragedy,’ she said.
The big game hunter had his own private function rooms filled with hundreds of his trophies, including elephant, rhino, bear, buffalo, lion, crocodile, zebra and leopard.
Dosio also shot and had almost every species of buck in the USA including elk, moose and reindeer mounted on the walls along with wildfowl including turkeys and geese.
A family friend said: ‘Ernie would hold a charity function there every month where food was served to members of the Elk lodges and upstanding citizens of the community.
‘There would be judges, advocates and the heads of the local vineyards and big noises from industry and commerce and it was where all the local networking was done.
‘It was always a huge fundraiser with money raised going to help those who needed it.
‘Ernie with his big moustache was larger than life but did not show it off although he had money he was not one for the big house or fancy cars or the jet-set lifestyle.
‘He was a just a farmer and good old country boy who loved to hunt and fish. There are not many in the US today who would have a trophy collection to match Ernie’s.
‘The news of his death in Africa was like a bomb going off here. It has been said the elephants came out of nowehere. One thing is for sure he will get a huge send off,’ he said.
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Swedish diplomat charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents
1:00 pm
Swedish diplomat charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents
Diplomat Charged
A senior Swedish diplomat was charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents that could have jeopardised national security.
A senior Swedish diplomat was charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents that could have jeopardised national security.
National Security Risk
Possession of classified documents by a senior diplomat poses a potential threat to Sweden’s national security, according to prosecutors, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in information handling.
Possession of classified documents by a senior diplomat poses a potential threat to Sweden’s national security, according to prosecutors, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in information handling.
Lawyer’s Statement
“My client denies these acts and maintains that the allegations are completely unfounded,” said Thomas Olsson, emphasising the matter concerns internal ministry procedures, not security enforcement.
“My client denies these acts and maintains that the allegations are completely unfounded,” said Thomas Olsson, emphasising the matter concerns internal ministry procedures, not security enforcement.
Key developments
A senior Swedish diplomat has been charged with unauthorised possession of classified documents, which prosecutors claim could have compromised Sweden’s national security. The diplomat allegedly took documents home without permission.
The prosecution, led by Mats Ljungqvist, stated that the diplomat accessed the classified information through his previous duties but wrongfully retained it. The case follows security raids by Sweden’s security service Sapo at his residences.
Swedish official charged with having secret documents that could have threatened national security
Published on
A senior Swedish diplomat serving as special envoy to Syria was charged on Friday with unauthorised possession of classified documents which could have jeopardised Sweden’s national security in the hands of a foreign power, prosecutors said.
“This concerns highly-classified information that the defendant has unlawfully handled by taking home and then keeping the documents containing classified information in his residence and holiday home,” prosecutor Mats Ljungqvist said in a statement.
The diplomat gained access to the classified information “through his previous duties, but which he then took with him without authorisation and subsequently appropriated as his own.”
According to the charge sheet, “disclosing the information to a foreign power may be detrimental to Sweden’s security.”
However, the diplomat acted “without any intention of serving a foreign power,” it said.
The diplomat, who was arrested in May 2025, had also been suspected of transmitting classified documents to a former politician from the central Swedish town of Gävle, but prosecutors have closed that investigation due to lack of evidence, Ljungkvist said.
In May last year, Sweden’s security service Sapo carried out raids on the diplomat’s two homes.
Disguised as construction workers, they raided his home at dawn and arrested him and another person. That person is no longer considered a suspect.
The arrests came the same day that another diplomat, Joachim Bergstrom, was arrested suspected of spying in another dramatic raid by security services.
Masked agents burst into Bergstrom’s apartment and pulled him out in his pyjamas.
Less than 48 hours later, after he had been released from custody but was still considered a suspect, he killed himself.
Thomas Olsson, the lawyer for the diplomat charged on Friday, told the AFP news agency his client “denies these acts and maintains that the allegations are completely unfounded.”
“My client has worked at the foreign service for decades and handled tens of thousands of different documents, including these ones,” he said.
The question of whether his client should have had the documents in his possession at his residences was a matter of foreign ministry procedure, he said.
“If you don’t follow the internal rules, at most it’s a disciplinary matter. It’s hardly something you should be using the Security Service to enforce.”
Additional sources • AFP
EU leaders discuss mutual defence strategy amid growing NATO concerns.
12:01 pm
EU leaders discuss mutual defence strategy amid growing NATO concerns.
EU member states are reportedly considering a mutual defence pact amid rising concerns about NATO’s reliability, particularly as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine escalates. European leaders are addressing the need for strategic autonomy, following a high-level meeting where EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell outlined plans for a coordinated security strategy. This comes as the bloc grapples with its security structure and the impact of US policy under the Biden administration.
Markets are reacting cautiously, with European stocks under pressure due to geopolitical uncertainties and rising energy costs, compounded by new sanctions on Russian energy exports aimed at crippling its military capabilities. Investors are closely monitoring the upcoming EU summit for further clarity on collective defence initiatives and potential economic ramifications stemming from these discussions.
Key developments across Europe
Europe Mulls What Mutual Defense Looks Like Outside NATO
EU DEFENCE — The EU is considering creating a mutual defence pact amidst uncertainty about NATO’s future role.
With rising security concerns, European leaders are contemplating a new framework for defence cooperation that could operate independently of NATO structures, potentially redefining the EU’s strategic posture. This initiative surfaces as a response to extensive geopolitical shifts and the changing nature of threats faced by European nations.
After toasting €90B loan, EU leaders face up to the morning after
EU ECONOMY — EU leaders are grappling with economic repercussions following a large loan agreement amid ongoing instability.
The €90 billion loan, aimed at supporting member states through turbulent economic times, has been both celebrated and scrutinised as leaders now assess its impact on national budgets and long-term financial strategies. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges within the EU to maintain economic stability in the face of global uncertainties.
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine: 20th round of stern EU sanctions hits energy revenues, military-industrial complex, trade and financial services, including crypto
EU SANCTIONS — The EU has enacted its 20th set of sanctions against Russia, targeting various sectors including energy and finance.
These measures aim to curtail revenue streams supporting Russia’s military efforts while addressing concerns over security and economic stability within the EU. The sanctions reflect the ongoing commitment of the EU to apply pressure on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine, reinforcing unity among member states.
‘We need to talk to everyone’: Albanian PM Rama slams EU for ‘strategic’ mistake on Russia
EU FOREIGN POLICY — Albanian Prime Minister Rama criticises the EU for its approach to Russia.
Rama’s comments underscore growing concerns within the region about the EU’s diplomatic strategies and the impact on regional security dynamics. He advocates for a more inclusive dialogue that extends beyond traditional alliances to ensure broader support and strategic coherence in dealing with Russia.
What to watch — The EU’s progress in establishing a mutual defence strategy could significantly reshape its security landscape.
Further reading from across European news sources
Politico Europe
EU leaders push for €9 billion plan to boost global health response
Financial Times
Polish PM questions whether US is ‘loyal’ to Europe’s defence
Euronews
Israel-weakens-defence-of-ukraine-warns-pedro-sanchez”>EU failure to sanction Israel weakens defence of Ukraine, warns Pedro Sánchez
The Guardian
Largest-ever ban on toxic chemicals in EU hit by ‘extremely frustrating’ delays
Der Spiegel
EU considers new sanctions against Russia
US soldier charged for betting on Venezuelan leader Maduro’s capture
10:01 am
US soldier charged for betting on Venezuelan leader Maduro’s capture
In a significant geopolitical development, US President Donald Trump announced a three-week extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, a move intended to alleviate rising tensions in the region. The ceasefire, which has ostensibly come under scrutiny, has affected diplomatic negotiations involving Iran, with Trump indicating a measured approach towards a potential deal with Tehran. The situation is being closely monitored as a critical moment for the Middle East and international relations overall global conflict updates.
Economically, concerns are emerging regarding the potential impact of this extended ceasefire on oil prices, particularly given the region’s strategic significance in the energy market. Analysts attribute the fluctuating prices to uncertainties surrounding Middle Eastern stability, with upcoming OPEC meetings set to provide further insights. Investors will be looking ahead to these discussions for directional guidance amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Key developments across the world
Middle East crisis live: Trump says Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extended by three weeks but claims he won’t rush Iran deal
GLOBAL SECURITY — The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has been extended for three weeks amid ongoing tensions.
This extension follows intense negotiations spearheaded by former President Donald Trump, who stated he will not pressure a deal with Iran during this period. The prolonged conflict raises concerns over broader Middle Eastern stability.
US special forces soldier ‘made $400k betting on his mission to capture Maduro’
GLOBAL POLITICS — A US soldier has been charged after allegedly profiting from betting on the outcome of a mission to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
The soldier reportedly placed bets exceeding $400,000, raising ethical and legal questions surrounding military operations and conduct, as well as the implications for US foreign policy towards Venezuela.
US soldier involved in Maduro raid charged over alleged bets on capture
GLOBAL POLITICS — Additional details have emerged regarding a US soldier charged for betting on the capture of Venezuelan President Maduro.
This case amplifies scrutiny on the actions of US forces abroad, particularly in light of ethical standards and potential abuses of military power during covert operations against foreign leaders.
Polish PM questions whether US is ‘loyal’ to Europe’s defence
DIPLOMACY — The Prime Minister of Poland has expressed doubts about the commitment of the United States to European security.
This statement comes amid rising tensions with Russia and underlines concerns over the reliability of US support as Europe faces its own security challenges, signalling potential shifts in alliances and defence strategies.
What to know about the missing scientists alarming Congress
INTERNATIONAL LAW — Congress is alarmed by reports of scientists tied to sensitive US research who have gone missing or died under mysterious circumstances.
This has prompted federal investigations amid concerns that national security could be at risk, particularly regarding technological advancements related to defence and space exploration.
What to watch — Watch for further developments in US military operations and international security commitments, particularly in Europe.
Further reading from global news sources
BBC News
US soldier charged after winning $400,000 betting on removal of Maduro
Financial Times
US soldier involved in capture of Venezuelan leader charged over $400,000 prediction-market bets
Reuters
Polish PM questions US loyalty in case of Russian attack, FT reports
The Kyiv Independent
Poland’s Tusk questions US loyalty to NATO
Video Captures ‘Albanian Crime Gang Raiding Cannabis Farm’ | News UK
8:00 am
Get you up to speed: Video Captures ‘Albanian Crime Gang Raiding Cannabis Farm’ | News UK
ORGANIZED CRIME
Footage on TikTok shows an Albanian gang raiding a cannabis ‘crop house’, intimidating the occupant while using infrared scanners to locate their target.
Footage on TikTok shows an Albanian gang raiding a cannabis ‘crop house’, intimidating the occupant while using infrared scanners to locate their target.
CRIME ALERT
Local security sources stated that an Albanian gang with a ‘vice-like’ grip on Southgate station is linked to trafficking and drug-related activities.
Local security sources stated that an Albanian gang with a ‘vice-like’ grip on Southgate station is linked to trafficking and drug-related activities.
CRIME ALERT
Authorities are aware of the Albanian gang’s TikTok activity but have yet to apprehend any members involved in the cannabis crop house raids.
Authorities are aware of the Albanian gang’s TikTok activity but have yet to apprehend any members involved in the cannabis crop house raids.
What we know so far
Footage has emerged showing an Albanian gang, clad in balaclavas, reportedly raiding a cannabis ‘crop house’. The video, posted on TikTok, features masked individuals using infrared scanners to detect heat from cannabis grow lamps.
The clip includes a violent rap soundtrack and displays the gang intimidating a bewildered man, presumably a resident or worker, while they capture footage of themselves among cannabis plants. One section of the video features the caption ‘f*** you’ as they appear to steal the plants.
This incident highlights the rising trend of Albanian gangs exploiting high-tech methods in drug-related crimes. Locals have reported fears surrounding their influence, particularly in areas dubbed ‘Little Tirana’ in north London, where crime, including drug trafficking and protection rackets, is said to be rampant. A source indicated that residents feel a lack of safety, stating, “We know who they are and where they operate out of,” urging police action.
Read in full
Footage shows ‘Albanian crime gang raiding cannabis grow house’ | News UK
Footage appears to show an Albanian gang clad in balaclavas filming themselves on TikTok raiding a cannabis ‘crop house’.
The chilling post shows masked men using infrared scanners on normal suburban streets to locate the heat from cannabis grow lamps. Once they have found a target, they make their way inside.
They pose for the camera with a violent trap song accompanying the footage with ‘f*** you’ written as a caption as the gang appear to rob the house.
The clip shows a bewildered-looking man in shorts and a T-shirt who apparently lives or works in the house being intimidated by the gang. The camera focuses on the raiders clutching cannabis plants.
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The ‘crop houses’ are kitted out with high-tech lighting and heating to aid the growth of the plants in what can be a highly lucrative business.
The property, which looks like an ordinary suburban house, cannot be identified.
Other footage posted on the same TikTok account shows a masked member of the ‘gang’ climbing up the side of a house before clambering through an open window.
Another shows an apparent reconnaissance mission in which the gang hide and watch a crop house.
Some of the footage is tagged with Albanian flags and accompanied by slogans in Albanian.
(Picture: @TikTok)
The rap themes are charged with violence and knives are mentioned. But no weapons are featured in the clips.
In one of the films the ‘gang’ members are seen holed up in what appears to be a safe house.
The latest ‘crop house’ footage is chillingly similar to that posted by another Albanian ‘crew’ this time in east London.
In Barking, a heavily armed Albanian gang called the Hellbanianz filmed themselves brandishing weapons while flaunting cash, Rolexes while driving Ferraris.
They ran the Gascoigne estate where their ‘soldiers’ lived. Their brash online posts eventually led the police to the door and some members have been convicted.
Meanwhile the WTX exposed a criminal network operating in Southgate, north London, where people trafficking and drug deals are bringing in huge sums.
An Albanian gang with its centre of operations around Southgate station has a ‘vice-like’ grip on the area, according to local security sources.
Such is the prevalence of the crew that the area around the station is known to locals as ‘Little Tirana’ after the Albanian capital.
A source told WTX: ‘We call it little Tirana around here. The Albanian gangs have a grip on the community and there is a lot of fear about being taken out [killed]. They have taken over some of the businesses and have threatened others.
‘There have been connections with people trafficking, protection rackets and drug dealing. It’s their turf for sure and they hide in plain sight.They have taken over some of the businesses and have threatened others.
‘There have been connections with people trafficking, protection rackets and drug dealing. It’s their turf for sure and they hide in plain sight. We know who they are and where they operate out of. It has been reported to the police they need to get a grip of this.’
(Picture: John Dunne)
Other areas of the capital have also seen the rise of Albanian gangs.
When raiders stormed an Albanian cannabis factory to steal the product their machetes and knives proved no match for the handguns the Albanians pulled to defend their territory.
A court heard that the robbers who were trying to steal from the factory in Croydon had ‘brought knives to a gunfight’.
The Shqiptare is the term used by the National Crime Agency to describe the Albanian crime syndicates.
They sell huge amount of cocaine smuggled into into the UK via Latin America.
It is believed they run a majority of the estimated £5bn cocaine market. They are buying for up to £5,000 a kilo according to police estimates. They started selling for less profit than their rivals to corner the market.
The supply of cocaine and other drugs on an industrial scale has provided the Albanian mob with funds to almost ‘buy up’ communities.
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