Yahoo News Swords and cleavers among deadly weapons haul found in police surrender bins
Swords and cleavers are among the deadly weapons dumped in police surrender bins across East Lancashire.
More than 600 potentially harmful and offensive weapons have been taken off the streets as part of Operation Sceptre, a national week-long initiative to tackle knife crime. Working with the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, and other partner agencies, a range of activity took place from November 11 to November 17 across the division to target those who carry dangerous weapons, raise awareness of the consequences of carrying a weapon, and engage with retailers who sell bladed articles.
The included: 27 weapon sweeps in local public spaces; numerous test purchasing operations to check retailers are complying with legislation; engaging with over 6,400 school children to raise awareness of the impact of carrying a knife; and 104 stop searches.
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Officers emptied the five knife bins dotted across East Lancashire and recovered 626 knives. Weapons included swords, cleavers and a variety of knives. They also engaged with the community through educational talks, community visits and leaflet drops.
Sergeant Michael Johnson, from Lancashire’s Violence Reduction Network said: "Nothing good can come from carrying a knife. They are dangerous, and by carrying one, you put yourself at greater risk of harm.
"Operation Sceptre week has achieved some good results, with many knives and weapons being removed from our streets. Our strong partnerships have been key in spreading the message that knife crime has no place in East Lancashire, and this work will continue.
"Our efforts don’t stop there; we all have a role to play in preventing knife crime. If you or someone you know is carrying a knife, I urge you to use one of our knife bins to surrender it safely and help make our communities safer for everyone."
You can find your local knife surrender bins at
Waterfoot Police Station, Bacup Road, BB4 7JA
Calico Homes, Croft Street, Burnley, BB11 ED
Darwen Police Station, Union Street, BB3 0DA
King Street, Accrington (Bus Station)
Nelson Police Station, Broadway, Nelson
Anyone with information about knife crime in their area is urged to call 101 or report anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
