24-hour Operation Tornado cracks down on knife crime across the Coast
North Yorkshire Police target crime with arrests, weapon seizures, and community engagement
North Yorkshire Police have executed a major 24-hour operation targeting knife crime and organised criminal activities across Scarborough, Whitby, and Filey.
Operation Tornado took place from 14th to 15th October 2026, uniting officers from neighbourhood policing, roads policing, the Rural Task Force and specialist departments to conduct enforcement, prevention, and engagement activities.
The operation resulted in 10 arrests, the seizure of 101 suspected illegal weapons, and the execution of four warrants. Officers also seized illegal drugs and valuables worth in excess of £5,500, carried out intelligence-led patrols and stop searches, and pursued outstanding suspects.
Key transport routes, including the A64, A169, and A170, were targeted to intercept criminals and weapon carriers using the region's networks.
A significant warrant led to the recovery of weapons from a Scarborough business on Foreshore Road. Separate warrants in Malton resulted in the seizure of suspected Class A drugs, cash, and drug paraphernalia.
In addition to enforcement efforts, police engaged directly with communities. Events at Scarborough Hospital and Gladstone Primary School educated residents on knife crime and community safety, while patrols across Scarborough, Ryedale, and Whitby provided reassurance and crime prevention.
Deputy Chief Constable Scott Bisset reinforced the importance of combined enforcement and education in tackling knife crime: "By targeting key transport routes and taking proactive action against offenders, we can disrupt criminality, remove weapons from our streets, and help keep our communities safe."
For those with information regarding knife crime or criminal activities, police advise reporting online or via 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.