Shocking images of blades taken off West Mercia's streets released

SHOCKING images of blades of death taken off West Mercia's streets earlier this month have been released.

More than 440 knives were taken off the streets of West Mercia over a week of action.

Operation Sceptre, which ran from Monday to Sunday, May 13 to 19, saw officers conduct 82 weapon sweeps and knife surrender bins were placed at police station front counters across the area.

Police also engaged with over 6,500 pupils at schools, colleges, community centres and youth clubs highlighting the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife.

The story of Lyndsey, whose husband Ian Kirwan was killed outside the Asda in Redditch in 2022 by a teenager who carried a knife, was also shared on social media.

During the interview, Lyndsey urged parents to speak to their children and look for changes in their behaviour.

Insp Mike Phillips of the Problem Solving Central Team said: “Operation Sceptre is a national week of action that highlights our work to tackle knife crime.

"However, it is important to stress that our work continues beyond this week of action and our officers are working every day to reduce the number of knives being carried and the number of people being hurt by them.

“If you are worried that someone you know is carrying a knife, please report it. We can then take the necessary steps to safeguard them”.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion added: “The results from Op Sceptre demonstrate the efforts and commitment being made by West Mercia Police to keep communities safe.

“It is also encouraging to see so many young people engaged with visits from officers to understand the devastating impact that knife crime can have on an individual’s life and that of the community.

“We know that knife crime is a social issue and while rates are low in West Mercia, I will continue to provide West Mercia Police with the tools and resources it needs to keep knives off our streets.”