Knife campaign Operation Sceptre launches today

Monday, 15 May 2023 01:00

Today (15/05) marks the start of Operation Sceptre, a national initiative to tackle knife crime through a period of intensified action.

Across two weeks, Wiltshire Police will coordinate activity targeting knife crime from the root cause to enforcement.

Whether engaging with local communities, working with young people to dispel myths around knives or carrying out test purchases with retailers – Op Sceptre showcases the many varied and impactful ways in which Wiltshire Police is working to reduce knife crime and tackle violence.

This iteration of Op Sceptre will run for two weeks across Wiltshire. It will feature a knife surrender campaign to encourage the public, particularly young people, to hand in any knives they have in surrender bins across the county.

Knives can be surrendered at the Salisbury Police Station in Bourne Hill offices and at Amesbry Baptist Church.

Neighbourhood inspector for Swindon David Tippetts said: “Since its launch in 2015, Operation Sceptre has galvanised activity, dedicating a week to intensified activity twice a year.

“This doesn’t mean we only look at this twice a year, but Sceptre is an opportunity to really focus on our efforts to tackle knife crime at a number of levels – from engaging with young people in schools to proactive patrols and knife sweeps.

“This time around, we will be running a knife surrender campaign across two weeks, where people around Swindon and the county will be encouraged to hand in knives and bladed weapons they are carrying.

“By carrying a knife, you are putting yourself and the people around you, such as your family and friends, at risk, and making different decisions – while often the hardest thing to do – is the safest.

“As ever, partnership working is integral to our approach and this week will also shine a spotlight on the many initiatives where Wiltshire Police joins charities and local organisations to bring real change for our communities.

“This is an ongoing mission and one which needs collective ambition, energy and patience.”