90 knives surrendered in Warwickshire

There were 90 knives surrendered to police in Warwickshire during Operation Sceptre, the national campaign to reduce knife crime.

Between 26 April and 2 May, people across the county were able to dispose of knives anonymously at three local police stations or hand them over to Safer Neighbourhood Teams at strategic locations in the county.

The breakdown of knives surrendered is as follows:
• Nuneaton and Bedworth / North Warwickshire – 10 knives
• Warwick / Stratford – 50 knives
• Rugby – 30 knives

Warwickshire officers also took part in over 25 tactical operations in the county focusing on knife crime prevention and education as well as targeted operations alongside partner agencies.

Nationally a total of 7,500 knives were surrendered, seized or recovered from weapon sweeps.

Superintendent Mike Smith from Warwickshire Police said: “We are pleased that people have taken the opportunity to dispose of knives. Any one of these could potentially have found their way to the streets with devastating consequences.

“This was just one week of activity and we will continue to do everything we can to tackle knife crime. If anyone has concerns about someone carrying a knife then please get in touch, it could save a life.”

If you have concerns about knife crime in your area, please get in touch with your local Safer Neighbourhood Team. If you would like to make a report about someone carrying a knife then please call Warwickshire Police on 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.

Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.