OFFICERS have been conducting knife sweeps across Malvern this week as part of Operation Sceptre – the national anti knife crime campaign.
The week long campaign, running from November 13 to 19, will see police raise awareness in the community, particularly with children and young people, about the dangers of carrying a knife.
Officers will also be undertaking a range of activity to target offenders including carrying out test purchases at retailers who sell knives, utilising weapon arches at key locations and making educational visits to raise awareness of the consequences of carrying a knife and highlight the diversionary pathways away from knife crime.
Levels of knife crime across Worcestershire, are relatively low in comparison to other parts of the country, however, police say work to help keep these levels low needs to continue.
Head of Prevention for West Mercia Police, Superintendent Edward Hancox said: “Every report of knife crime is one too many and is ultimately preventable.”
“Early intervention is vital when it comes to tackling knife crime.
“Steer Clear is an early intervention programme, funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner for West Mercia and in partnership with The Children’s Society, that helps young people who are involved in or on the periphery of being involved in knife crime through a mentoring approach.
“I would urge any parent or carer, teacher or professional to refer any child or young person they think may be involved in knife crime.
“Carrying knives or other weapons do not keep you safe. By carrying a knife you are putting yourself in much greater danger, and more likely to become involved in a violent situation and get injured yourself.”
During the week members of the public are being encouraged to drop off unwanted knives and blades in dedicated knife surrender bins to ensure they are disposed of safely and do not get in the wrong hands.
No knives were found during sweeps in Malvern.
Visit www.westmercia.police.uk/police-forces/west-mercia-police/areas/west-mercia/campaigns/campaigns/knife-crime/ for more.
