Starting today, police officers across Southampton, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight are joining forces in a national initiative to tackle the pressing issue of knife crime. This concerted effort, part of Operation Sceptre led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, aims to enhance community safety and reduce knife-related incidents.
Operation Sceptre, commencing on Monday, November 11, will see officers engage in a series of targeted actions. These include seizing knives, arresting individuals in possession of them, and raising awareness about the dangers associated with carrying knives. The ultimate goal is to curb the serious violence that knife crimes can incite within communities.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is collaborating closely with its Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) and various partners, including local authorities, public health officials, charities, and youth workers. This partnership is vital in making communities safer and preventing young people from being drawn into knife crime.
Key activities planned during Operation Sceptre include:
- Increased Patrols: Officers will conduct additional high visibility patrols, focusing on known hotspot areas and engaging with current and potential knife carriers.
- Educational Initiatives: Efforts will be made to work with schools, colleges, and youth groups to educate young people on the dangers of knife crime.
- Weapons Sweeps: Officers will conduct searches for hidden or discarded knives.
- Knife Arches: The deployment of knife arches at various locations aims to detect and deter individuals from carrying knives.
- Challenge 25 ID Promotion: Working with partners to promote the ‘Challenge 25 ID’ approach.
The Constabulary’s ongoing commitment to tackling knife crime has already yielded positive results. Over the past four years, knife-related crime in Hampshire and Isle of Wight has decreased by 8.6%.
Acting Inspector Christian Lavin, Tactical Lead for Knife Crime for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, emphasized the comprehensive approach of Operation Sceptre. “In Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, a huge effort is being made to work closely with local and national partners to educate, prevent, and reduce knife crime in our communities,” he stated. “Through educational talks, community engagement, and enforcement tactics, we aim to make a significant impact.”
Inspector Lavin also highlighted recent legislative changes that enhance police powers to seize certain knives and weapons, further protecting the public and enhancing community safety. He reassured the public: “Though knife crime figures in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are comparatively low, they continue to fall within our communities. Carrying a weapon does not make you safer and puts you at greater risk.”
Members of the public are encouraged to utilize permanent knife surrender bins available at various stations across the districts, providing a safe way to dispose of weapons. A full list of locations is available online.
Anyone with information about individuals carrying knives is urged to report it to the police via the non-emergency number 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. Through awareness and action, communities can contribute to reducing knife crime and enhancing public safety.
