Yahoo News Three 17-year-olds among eight arrested as police target knife-related crime
Teams of officers carried out early morning raids, arresting people for alleged offences including drug-dealing and a robbery involving a machete.
Following a briefing at Cleveland Police HQ on Tuesday, officers conducted two warrants at Headlam Court in the Tilery area of Stockton. A quantity of drugs, believed to be class B, were seized from one property, along with a "large amount" of money.
Two 17-year-old boys were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class B drugs. They were taken into custody for questioning and bailed pending further enquiries.
Outstanding suspects were also targeted in Operation Artemis including a 22-year-old man and a 28-year-old woman who were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary with intent involving a machete. Another 17 year old was arrested on warrant in relation to a knife-point robbery and breach of bail.
A 33-year-old man was also arrested on warrant in relation to possession of a Class A drug and a 25-year-old man on suspicion of robbery in which a machete was reportedly used. Teams also carried out foot patrols across the Cleveland area.
This resulted in officers arresting a 22-year-old man on suspicion of possession of a bladed article and possession of a class C drug following a stop search in Tilery in Stockton. The Matrix Team carried out road patrols throughout the day.
A vehicle, which had been stolen, was seized by the team to be reunited with its owner and four drivers were reported for using mobile phones while driving. Meanwhile digital boards were displayed across the area throughout the day to highlight stark facts about knife crime over the last year.
Officers and PCSOs carried out community engagement and visited schools to warn children about the dangers of knives. Detective Chief Inspector Stu Hodgson said: “Yesterday’s day of action focused on taking dangerous knives and weapons off our streets, arresting those believed to be involved in serious violence and making our communities safer.
"Whilst we continue to do this work day in and day out, it’s important we are visible in our communities to send out a strong message to anyone who carries knives that it will not be tolerated. Enforcement is one way we can tackle the issue but yesterday was also about awareness and education reminding people about the dangers and the consequences they will face for committing knife-related crime."
Anyone with information about knife crime in their area is urged to contact police on 101. Independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phone on 0800 555 111.
For more information on how the force is tackling knife crime, visit: Carrying a blade doesn't give you an edge | Cleveland Police
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