OVER 400 knives have been taken off the streets during West Mercia Police’s involvement in a national action campaign.
Across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire, the force seized 440 knives during Operation Sceptre which ran from Monday, May 13 to Sunday, May 19.
Officers conducted 82 weapon sweeps in areas known for depositing weapons and knife surrender bins remained at police stations across the area.
All of the confiscated knives were safely collected, preventing them from finding their way onto the streets.
In addition, officers engaged with over 6,500 pupils at schools, colleges, community centres and youth clubs highlighting the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife whilst also covering how to report crime.
The force also shared Lyndsey’s story following her husband’s murder in February 2022. Ian Kirwan was killed outside a supermarket in Redditch by a teenager who carried a knife. She spoke to us urging parents to speak to their children and look for changes in their behaviour. You can watch the interview here.
Inspector Mike Phillips of the problem solving central team, said “It is important to stress our work continues beyond this week of action and our officers are working every day to reduce the number of knives being carried and the number of people being hurt by them.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “The results from Op Sceptre demonstrate the efforts and commitment being made by West Mercia Police to keep communities safe.
“It is also encouraging to see so many young people engaged with visits from officers to understand the devastating impact that knife crime can have on an individual’s life and that of the community.
“We know that knife crime is a social issue and while rates are low in West Mercia, I will continue to provide West Mercia Police with the tools and resources it needs to keep knives off our streets.”
Visit www.fearless.org or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to report concerns about knife crime. Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously.
