Campaign Against Knife Crime Recovers Over 1,400 Weapons

A week-long initiative, which highlighted the “devastating consequences” of knife crime, resulted in the retrieval of over 1,400 weapons. Lancashire Police reported 90 arrests and 331 stop and searches as part of this nationwide operation. For Operation Sceptre, the police force collaborated with the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network (VRN) and various other local organizations. Approximately 15,000 young people participated in workshops conducted in schools, colleges, and community groups, where they listened to true accounts regarding the impact of knife crime. The initiative included 23 “knife surrender bins” that provided a secure method for individuals to discard knives and other hazardous weapons. Concurrently, Trading Standards collaborated with police to inspect 70 retail establishments. Underage volunteers were utilized to assess staff adherence to regulations governing knife sales. Police indicated that 27 stores did not pass these checks, “highlighting the continued need for education and enforcement around responsible knife sales”. Ch Insp Dave Oldfield, who serves as the operational lead for Lancashire VRN, stated: “Sceptre isn’t just about enforcement – it is about prevention, education, and building trust. The recovery of over 1,400 knives and the engagement of more than 15,000 young people shows the significant strides we are making. But the work doesn’t stop here. By continuing to collaborate and address the root causes of knife crime, we can make communities safer for everyone.” Clive Grunshaw, the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, commented: “Carrying or using knives is completely unacceptable and unnecessarily puts lives at risk.” For more content, listeners can access the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.