Mark Corcoran’s murder came just days after Croydon Police launched a new knife crime initiative.

More than 100 police swamped Croydon’s schools, transport and the town centre on Friday night in an attempt to quash knife crime and violent attacks.

Armed officers targeted people they suspected might carry weapons into the town during Operation Safe for All, which began at 1pm and ran until Saturday morning.

Four knives were seized and more than 60 people arrested on suspicion of offences including robbery and possession of drugs during the operation, which was timed to coincide with the beginning of the half-term holidays and the St Valentine’s weekend.

Knife arches were deployed at transport hubs across the town, and mounted officers and dog teams patrolled the shopping streets during the afternoon and early evening.

Police also visited 45 schools to tell the children about alternatives to hanging about the streets and explain the dangers and consequences of carrying weapons.

Superintendent Dave Stringer, who led the operation for Croydon police said: “We are committed to reducing serious youth violence and knife crime in Croydon and we want to send a message that the use or transport of knives and guns is not acceptable in this borough.

“It is important to remember that the overwhelming majority of young people in Croydon are good citizens and it is our job to keep them safe. However, we will look to target those who choose to engage in criminal and violent activity.”