The Rise and Fall of the Arif Crime Family

The name 'Arif' became synonymous with organised crime in London for decades, particularly in the south-east of the city. Originating from Turkish-Cypriot roots, this formidable criminal organisation carved out a significant presence in the London underworld, becoming a dominant force after the decline of the notorious Kray brothers. Their activities spanned a range of illicit enterprises, from armed robbery and drug trafficking to various other racketeering ventures, leaving an indelible mark on the capital's criminal landscape.

The Vacuum After the Krays

Following the imprisonment of the Kray twins, a power vacuum emerged within London's criminal hierarchy. Several organisations vied to fill this void, and the Arif family was among the most successful. They rose to prominence alongside other significant syndicates, including the Clerkenwell crime syndicate and the Brindle family. This period saw intense rivalries, and the Arifs were notably engaged in a highly publicised gangland war with some of these rivals throughout the 1990s. This era cemented their reputation as a major player in the city's criminal underworld.

A Reign of Influence

By the late 1980s, the Arifs were widely considered the leading crime family in the London area. Their influence was substantial, and their operations were extensive. However, their reign at the top was not to last indefinitely. The early 1990s marked a turning point, with the arrest and conviction of a significant portion of the family's leadership. These legal repercussions were primarily for serious offences such as armed robbery and drug-related crimes, which effectively dismantled much of their operational capacity at the highest levels.

Media Recognition and Notoriety

The Arif family's notoriety extended beyond the confines of the criminal underworld, frequently capturing the attention of the media. In 2004, the Irish Daily Mirror sensationally labelled the Arifs as "Britain's No 1 crime family." This powerful declaration was echoed by other media outlets in subsequent years, including in 2016, underscoring the significant impact and perceived reach of the organisation. Such designations highlight the fear and respect, albeit for criminal activities, that the family commanded.

Origins and Early Operations

The Arif family's criminal journey began in the 1960s, with their operations firmly rooted in south-east London. Their Turkish-Cypriot heritage played a role in their identity and potentially their networks. As mentioned, they were involved in a spectrum of criminal activities, including racketeering, drug smuggling, armed robbery, and even murder. The leadership was notably concentrated among brothers, with Deniz, Mehmet, and Doğan Arif identified as key figures. However, the involvement of other brothers in various facets of the family's operations indicated a deeply entrenched and widespread criminal enterprise.

Key Incidents and Legal Battles

One of the most documented incidents involving the Arif family occurred in November 1990. Brothers Deniz and Mehmet Arif were apprehended in Woodhatch, Surrey, during an attempted robbery of a Securicor van. The pair were armed with shotguns and wore Ronald Reagan masks, adding a theatrical element to their criminal endeavour. Mehmet Arif, who was driving the getaway vehicle, was shot by police during the incident but survived. His passenger, Kenneth Baker, was killed by police as he attempted to open fire on officers while armed with a sawn-off shotgun.

Drug Trafficking Convictions

The Arif family's involvement in drug trafficking led to significant legal consequences for several members. Bekir Arif, known by the moniker "The Duke" and one of seven brothers, received a 23-year prison sentence in 1999. His conviction was for conspiracy to supply a substantial quantity of heroin, valued at £12.5 million. Doğan Arif also faced imprisonment for drug smuggling, and it was reported that he continued to exert control over the family's considerable fortune from behind bars. This suggests a level of organisational resilience, even with key members incarcerated.

International Connections

The family's reach was not confined solely to the United Kingdom. Reports indicated that the Arif family maintained strong ties with relatives in Turkey. These connections were allegedly instrumental in overseeing the shipment of narcotics and other illicit goods arriving on mainland Europe, further extending their criminal network across international borders.

The Arif Family's Downfall and Legacy

The sustained law enforcement efforts and the convictions of key members significantly impacted the Arif organisation. While the family's name became synonymous with a particular era of London's organised crime, the arrests and incarcerations in the early 1990s marked the beginning of their decline. The subsequent decades saw their overt dominance wane, although the legacy of their activities and the impact on the criminal landscape of London persisted. The frequent mentions in media reports, often highlighting their association with serious crimes, serve as a testament to their formidable presence during their peak years.

Comparison with Other London Gangs

The rise of the Arifs occurred during a period of significant flux in London's criminal organisations. Their emergence as a leading force after the Krays places them in direct competition with other influential groups. Here's a brief comparative overview:

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main criminal activities of the Arif family?

The Arif family was primarily involved in armed robbery, drug trafficking (especially heroin), and various forms of racketeering. They were known to engage in violent activities to maintain their operations and control.

When did the Arif family become prominent in London's underworld?

They became a significant force in the late 1960s and rose to prominence, becoming a leading crime family in the late 1980s, particularly after the downfall of the Kray brothers.

What led to the downfall of the Arif family's leadership?

The downfall of the leadership was largely due to arrests and convictions in the early 1990s for serious offences, including armed robbery and drug-related crimes.

Did the Arif family have international connections?

Yes, reports indicate that the Arif family maintained ties with relatives in Turkey, which were reportedly used to facilitate the shipment of illicit goods into mainland Europe.

What is the legacy of the Arif family in London's criminal history?

The Arif family left a legacy as one of London's most significant organised crime syndicates of the late 20th century, known for their ruthlessness and extensive criminal network. Their activities contributed to the violent and complex landscape of London's underworld during their peak.

The story of the Arif family is a stark reminder of the enduring nature of organised crime and its impact on society. Their rise and eventual decline illustrate the cyclical nature of criminal enterprises, often fuelled by opportunity and ambition, but ultimately susceptible to the pressures of law enforcement and internal conflict.