The number of drug use incidents on the London Underground has declined for the first time in three years, according to new figures from British Transport Police (BTP). Data released by Transport for London (TfL) shows that BTP recorded 470 incidents in 2024–25, a notable decrease from 589 the previous year.
The figures were disclosed in response to a Freedom of Information request and indicate a modest shift in trends after years of rising drug-related activity across the capital’s transport network. Among the logged incidents were 63 reports of white powder or unknown substances and 56 related to cannabis use.
Hammersmith Station Tops List of Offending Locations
The highest number of recorded incidents occurred at Hammersmith station, with seven cases, followed by Oxford Circus with four. The drop comes after a steady increase in incidents from 390 in 2021–22 to 506 in 2022–23, peaking at 589 last year before this year’s decline.
Police Presence and Targeted Operations Behind the Drop
TfL credited the drop in drug-related offences to a sustained effort by enforcement officers and coordinated policing with BTP. “We are committed to reducing crime across our network,” a TfL spokesperson said. “Our enforcement teams, alongside a visible presence of police and community support officers, actively patrol to deter anti-social behaviour and target known hotspots.”
The BTP echoed this sentiment but emphasised there is still work to be done. “These statistics are encouraging, but we remain focused on tackling drug crime on the network,” said a BTP representative. “We routinely carry out intelligence-led operations at transport hubs to disrupt county lines, seize illegal substances, and arrest those exploiting vulnerable individuals.”
TfL Maintains Commitment to Passenger Safety
TfL affirmed its ongoing cooperation with police forces to maintain safety on the Underground. Their current strategy involves proactive patrols and crime prevention operations aimed at both reducing incidents and reassuring the public.
