SIX men have been arrested in Enfield following a police crackdown on hate crime.

Mark Lynch, 33, off Woodlands Road, has been charged with assault and will appear at Enfield Magistrates' Court next Monday.

A 21-year-old man was arrested for breaching a non-molestation order and four men aged 19, 21, 34 and 34 were arrested for assault.

The operation, codenamed Athena, aimed to crack down on hate crime offenders, including those suspected of domestic, homophobic, transphobic, race and faith-related offences, and offences against disabled people.

The raids began just after midnight last night and so far 77 people have been arrested.

Detective Superintendent Darren Williams, the head of the Met's Hate Crime Unit, said: "Today's operations represent part of the proactive approach we are taking to bring those responsible to justice.

"Support to victims is the most important factor in hate crime and we encourage the use of third party reporting.

"We are continually working with partners to develop stronger links with communities most at risk.

"We know that all hate crime is under reported and this remains a challenge for us.

"We will continue to work hard to gain the trust and confidence of all communities so that victims feel that they can come forward and tell police.

"My message to all victims is that if you feel you can't tell the police - tell someone."

Anyone who wishes to report a hate crime can call the non-emergency number 0300 123 1212 or visit www.met.police.uk.