Good results for countywide week of action to prevent and tackle knife crime

Warwickshire Police has been intensifying efforts to combat knife crime as part of the national Operation Sceptre week of action.

Officers across the county were involved in a total of 53 operational and community engagement activities between 16 and 22 May.

Highlights from the week included:

• The safe disposal of 175 knives that were bought to 6 surrender bins located at police stations or mobile units in the community
• 2 arrests following 2 targeted stop and search operations
• 10 weapons sweeps undertaken at parks and waste ground
• 8 youth engagement visits to community groups and clubs
• 7 educational visits to schools and colleges
• 14 leaflet drops to various venues and outlets including taxis, shops and schools
• 6 retailer visits, reminding that knives and bladed objects must not be sold or delivered to under 18s

Superintendent Lee Kemp, Communities and Response, said “The proactive policing of our Safer Neighbourhood Teams as part of Operation Sceptre, has once again yielded positive results.

“Tackling knife crime is an ongoing priority for Warwickshire Police, and this intensification week gives a snapshot of the educational and enforcement activity that officers undertake together with partners and the community all year round.

“It takes just one knife in the wrong hands to cause devastation to a family.  We rely on continued support from the public to come forward with information that can assist our investigations or prevent a potential tragedy. Please call us on 101 or report online if you have any information or concerns.”