Staggering number of knifes and weapons removed from Hampshire's streets as week-long crackdown on knife crime is hailed a success

Hampshire Police made 19 arrests for knife-related offences and removed a total of 890 knives from our streets during Operation Sceptre where it also executed a weapons-related warrant, conducted searches, and seized knives, a knuckle duster, BB guns and an axe.

A variety of other tactics were used by the force; including weapons sweeps, engagement with schools and local communities, knife arches in public places, and knife surrender bins for the public to hand over any bladed weapons.

Forming a significant part of the week of action were 320 community engagement activities were also carried out across the county including visits to schools, colleges and youth clubs aimed at helping young people to move away from violence and involvement in gang activity. Officers also educated the wider community on risks and consequences of knife crime and providing reassurance and advice towards building community resilience.

The week also focused on education and engagement with members of the public and retailers who sell knives, with strict rules in place for retailers selling knives. Neighbourhood and Licencing officers carried out spot checks and spoke to shop staff about the sale of knives to ensure they were aware of restrictions in place and the need for ID checks it comes as 25 test purchases were made at businesses across the county with 28 per cent failing to carry out the required checks.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s tactical lead for knife crime, Inspector Mike Minnock, said: “This week of action has seen really positive results that are a direct cause of meaningful action – from engagement with young people, to strong collaboration with our partners and a shared commitment to making our streets safer. It’s only by working together that we can create lasting change and protect our communities because policing cannot do it alone.

“The majority of retailers are working with us to ensure dangerous weapons don’t end up in the wrong hands and prevent the sale of knives to young people. There is still work to be done and we are committed to cracking down on those that continue to break the law.

“It’s also very positive to have met with so many members of the community, and it’s clear we all have the same determination to tackle knife crime. Over the last three years, we are continuing to see a 22.4 per cent reduction in serious offences involving a knife across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, which isn’t the same in other parts of the country.

“Whilst that is only a statistic – we know, feel and see first-hand the tragic consequences and far reaching impact that knife crime has on individuals, families and communities. This Force is committed to make our streets safer and to build brighter futures for all

“If someone you know is carrying a knife you can report it to the police, speak to a trusted family member or teacher, or you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers.”

If you are worried or concerned about knife crime, support is available through the charity The Ben Kinsella Trust and you can also speak to us by calling 101 and asking for the local Neighbourhood Team. In an emergency, always call 999.

If there are areas where you live or spend time that don’t feel safe you can report this anonymously via StreetSafe. The information is given to your local police force who can then look at what they can do to improve safety in that area. Anonymous reporting is available through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.