Police launch week of action to tackle knife crime in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire Police will conduct a week of action to combat knife crime next week, as part of Operation Sceptre, a national knife crime initiative.

Knife related crime remains lower in Hertfordshire than in other parts of the country, but the campaign - from Monday April 26, to Sunday, May 2 - aims to reinforce the message that carrying a knife is illegal and will not help to keep you safe.

During the week Hertfordshire Police will be conducting activities aimed at reducing knife crime, including conducting knife sweeps and talking to retailers about making sure knives sales are age checked, as well as educating young people about the dangers of carrying a knife through engagement.

Inspector Nicola Dean from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Crime Reduction Unit, who is leading on the operational activity for Operation Sceptre, said: “Whilst knife crime has remained relatively low, due to the lockdowns, we want to take the opportunity to drive down the number of knives in circulation.

“Regular weeks of action are part of our wider strategy to tackle violent crime.

"During the week we will be conducting operations to reduce knife-related crime and to raise awareness of knife crime and that it is illegal to carry a knife in public and may lead to arrest.

“The week of action also provides opportunities to engage with young people about the dangers of carrying a knife and raise awareness amongst local businesses that selling certain knives to anyone under 18 is illegal.”

If you are concerned or have information about someone carrying knives or are aware of anyone involved in knife crime you can report this by calling 101.

You can also report information online, or stay anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.

If you would like further information on support services relating to knife crime contact Fearless.org.