Think Carrying a Knife Makes You Safer? Think Again, Warns Devon & Cornwall Police

Devon & Cornwall Police have joined forces with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) to support the national ‘Sceptre’ campaign, which aims to raise awareness of knife-related crime and the dangers of carrying knives. Running from Monday 11th to Sunday 17th November 2024, the campaign is part of a wider strategy to remove dangerous weapons from streets and keep communities safe.

Detective Inspector Kevin Morley, who coordinated the operation, emphasised the commitment to tackling knife crime:
“Whilst knife crime in Devon and Cornwall remains low, we support this national campaign whole-heartedly. Just one person carrying a knife is one too many. We continue to work with our partners throughout the year to keep knives out of the hands of young people.”

Engagement Activities Target Knife Awareness

During the week-long campaign, officers conducted enhanced patrols, weapon sweeps, and engagement events, particularly with young people across Devon and Cornwall. High streets, schools, and even pubs and clubs were visited as part of the effort to educate the public on the risks of carrying knives. Knife-detecting arches were used in schools to raise awareness, and officers stressed that carrying a knife increases the likelihood of being injured with it.

In addition to public engagement, local policing teams carried out four search warrants, resulting in the seizure of seven knives. Across all activities during the campaign, a total of 26 weapons were confiscated.

Local cadets also played a role, testing knife-sale compliance at 18 retailers. While most followed legal guidelines, those who failed were provided with guidance to improve their policies.

Arrests and Legislative Changes

Six arrests were made during the campaign for possession of bladed weapons, and nine knives were recovered. DI Kevin Morley highlighted the importance of ongoing efforts:
“We have had a successful week getting knives off the street, engaging with the public and raising awareness around 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.”

Kevin also mentioned recent changes in legislation banning zombie knives, urging people to be aware of the law.

Knife Surrender Bins and Reporting Concerns

Knife surrender bins are now permanently installed at local police stations, offering a safe and discreet way for the public to dispose of unwanted knives. For locations of these bins, visit dc.police.uk/peo.

If you are concerned about someone carrying a knife or want to report knife crime, you can contact Devon & Cornwall Police online via dc.police.uk/tua. Reports can also be made anonymously through CrimeStoppers UK by calling 0800 555 111.

Retailers can find guidance on selling knives at nbcc.police.uk/knifeguidance.

Additional Resources

• Visit nottheone.co.uk for more information about knives and knife crime.
• Report unsafe places anonymously at police.uk/streetsafe.
• Young people can report anonymously through fearless.org.

Kevin concluded by reaffirming Devon and Cornwall’s reputation as one of the safest places to live:
“Devon and Cornwall remain among the safest places to live in the country. We will continue to use every available resource to combat knife crime and keep our neighbourhoods safe.”