Police Take Part in National Knife Awareness Campaign Across Devon and Cornwall

Seven knives seized in raids as schools, shops and streets targeted during week-long campaign

Police focus on education and enforcement

Devon and Cornwall Police have wrapped up a week of action aimed at tackling knife possession and illegal knife sales across the region. The campaign, part of the national ‘Sceptre’ knife awareness operation, ran from Monday 19th to Sunday 25th May 2025.

Co-ordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), the effort focused on both education and enforcement, with officers engaging directly with knife retailers and members of the public.

Detective Inspector Kevin Morley, who led the operation for Devon and Cornwall Police, said: “While knife crime in Devon and Cornwall remains low, we support this national campaign whole-heartedly. It’s important that local knife retailers are aware of the law and the checks that should be carried out when selling knives”.

Shops tested and schools visited

Local police cadets carried out test purchases at seven retailers to check whether knives were being sold to under-18s. Most retailers passed the test and followed the rules, but two shops failed and were given advice on their knife selling policies.

Officers also visited local schools with knife arches and engaged with young people to highlight the risks. According to police, those who carry knives are more likely to be injured by one, contradicting the idea that carrying a blade offers protection.

Weapons seized and public spaces searched

During the week, police carried out three search warrants and seized seven knives. In total, twelve weapons were recovered through raids and weapon sweeps in public areas where knives may have been hidden or discarded.

Officers also carried out patrols in high streets, pubs and clubs, speaking with the public and raising awareness.

Kevin added: “We have had a successful week getting knives off the street, engaging with the public and raising awareness around the dangers of knife carrying.

“Some people think knife carrying will make them safer when the reality is that they are more likely to be injured with their own knife.

“This emphasises the importance of our on-going efforts to remove knives from our streets, as we recognise the catastrophic impact on families who have been victims of knife crime.”

Knife bins and how to report concerns

Knife surrender bins are now permanently installed at police stations across Devon and Cornwall. Anyone can safely and discreetly dispose of a knife at any time. Details of bin locations are available at dc.police.uk/peo.

Concerns about someone carrying a knife or about knife crime in the community can be reported to police at dc.police.uk/tua, or anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.

Retailers can get guidance on knife sales at www.nbcc.police.uk/knifeguidance, while further information and resources can be found at:

• nottheone.co.uk – for information about knives and knife crime

• police.uk/streetsafe – to report a place where you don’t feel safe

• fearless.org – for young people to report anonymously