West Midlands Police strengthen crackdown on knife crime during Sceptre Week
23 knives were recovered and 80 arrests were made
Alongside routine patrols, West Midlands Police deployed additional teams to neighbourhoods affected by anti-social behaviour, drug activity and knife-related incidents.
These patrols involved uniformed and undercover officers, dog units, firearms teams and traffic officers working together to create a strong visible presence.
Police officers and PCSOs also undertook more than 50 weapon sweeps and delivered crime-prevention advice at 535 engagement events. These ranged from school workshops and community stalls to youth group intervention talks across the West Midlands.
Information provided by local residents meant that officers were able to search 31 premises suspected of selling weapons or exploiting vulnerable individuals.
Working with local authorities, they also completed 12 retailer visits aimed at stopping the sale of knives to under-18s. Trading Standards teams continue to monitor retailers and licensed venues to ensure they are not selling illicit or counterfeit goods.
Sceptre Week forms part of the force’s long-term strategy to tackle knife crime and highlight its dangers. Police will continue collaborating with communities, schools and partner agencies to build on the progress made and support lasting reductions in violence.