Police release local findings from national knife crime initiative Operation Sceptre

Thames Valley Police has released its findings and results from a national operation to tackle knife crime, called Operation Sceptre.

Operation Sceptre was a national week of action to challenge and reduce the threat of knife crime and saw permanent knife amnesty bins placed at police stations across the Thames Valley.

The week-long initiative, which ran from May 16 to May 22, aimed to prevent unwanted knives from finding their way on to the streets.

Of the total 88 knives and bladed articles that were handed in during the operation, six came from West Berkshire.

Tactical lead for knife crime chief inspector Chris Young said: “Operation Sceptre is part of our ongoing proactive work to reduce knife crime across the Thames Valley.

“During the week of action, there has been an increased police presence in our communities, with officers engaging with the businesses, young people and working in partnership to disrupt crime.

“As a result, a total of 128 stop searches were made resulting in 38 arrests and seven weapons removed from our streets."

A number of other proactive activities were undertaken across the force to tackle knife crime including 128 stop searches with 38 knife-related arrests made and seven weapons seized

Officers carried out 81 school visits, using a range of tactics to engage with students on the dangers and fatal consequences of using knives.

There were also 178 test purchase operations carried out in partnership with Trading Standards, cadets and police volunteers at stores across the Thames Valley to spot check age compliance for the sale of knives.

Mr Young added: "This demonstrates our continued efforts to disrupt knife crime and reduce serious violence.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported this week of action and all those who continue to support us to tackle knife crime and make our communities a safer place.

"If you need to report a knife related crime to the police, please report it to us online via our website or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency if there is an immediate danger to life.

"Alternatively, you can report information 100 per cent anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."