Arrests made as crossbows, knives, axe and Samurai sword seized in crime clampdown
“Weapons-based violence is something we remain committed to tackling”
More than 100 arrests have been made and dangerous weapons taken out of the wrong hands as part of a dedicated week of action by Northumbria Police to tackle violence in communities.
As part of Operation Sceptre, warrants were carried out at addresses across the Northumbria Police force area last month (May).
Officers made a total of 106 arrests, with 24 being knife-related and 24 weapons seized, including a Samurai sword, baseball bat, extendable baton and an axe.
Seven arrests came from warrant activity, with weapons including two automatic crossbows, an air weapon and two swords seized from an address in the Balkwell Avenue area of North Shields.
Police officers teamed up with local authority Trading Standards to carry out 31 test purchases. Four retailers failed, with two selling scissors to underage children.
Superintendent Kevin Waring, Northumbria Police’s Knife Crime Lead, said: “This is an excellent set of results from our latest week of enhanced activity as part of Sceptre and I hope those in our communities are reassured.
“Weapons-based violence is something we remain committed to tackling through a number of different tactics which we employ day-in, day out to keep residents and visitors safe.
“Dealing with knife crime isn’t just about knocking in doors, making arrests and seizing weapons though. Prevention remains absolutely key which is why we’ve carried out engagement sessions to young people of a variety of ages to spell out the dangers of choosing to arm yourself with a weapon.
“Please continue to work with us by reporting suspected knife crime issues so that we can take the appropriate action. Your help towards our efforts is very much appreciated.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth added: “Knife crime can have a devastating and lasting impact on individuals, families and communities, which is why preventing violence and keeping people safe remains a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan.
“These are great results from Northumbria Police – removing hundreds of dangerous weapons from our streets, making arrests, and disrupting violence before it escalates.
“But work around education and prevention is so important too, and I am pleased with the work from the Violence Reduction Unit, community engagement teams and our local partners – all have been busy reaching out to young people, listening to them, and making sure they are equipped to make safer, more informed choices.”
Anyone who wants to report suspected knife crime can do so by sending Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or by using the report forms on its website.