Gwent Police supports national campaign to tackle knife crime
Gwent Police is joining with forces across the country to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying knives and blades.
Operation Sceptre is a national police initiative which brings forces together for an intensified week of coordinated action. Last year saw 9,737 knives taken off the streets across the UK and 829 people arrested for knife crime offences.
Throughout the week, Gwent officers will carry out targeted patrols across the five local authority areas and deliver presentations in schools to raise awareness of the devastating impact of knife crime. Officers will also work with local authorities to encourage retailers to participate in Gwent’s responsible sellers’ scheme and commit to sell knives safely.
Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd said: “Knife crime destroys lives. While Gwent continues to have relatively low levels of knife crime we know it is a growing concern for our communities.
“A key part of preventing this crime in our communities is education and I am really pleased that Gwent Police is delivering presentations to schools as part of this initiative to help children understand how truly devastating it can be.
“We all have a responsibility to help keep our communities safe so if you know that someone is carrying a knife please report it.”
As part of the campaign, Gwent Police are also appealing for people to hand in unwanted knives and other weapons at amnesty bins across Gwent between the following dates:
Monday 13 May – Sunday 19 May 2024
- Newport Central: 8am - 7pm
- Monmouth: 9am - 1pm and 2pm – 4pm
- Blackwood: 9am - 1pm and 2pm – 4pm
- Ebbw Vale: 9am - 1pm and 2pm – 4pm
- Cwmbran: 9am - 1pm and 2pm – 4pm.
Information about someone carrying a knife or other weapons can be reported to Gwent Police on 101, via the Gwent Police website, or via Facebook and Twitter.
Anonymous reports can be made to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or via the CrimeStoppers website.
Children and young people can report information anonymously to the CrimeStoppers youth service Fearless on 0800 555 111 or via the Fearless website.
In an emergency always call 999.