Police week of action in Dorset targets knife crime
Dorset Police intensify operations and engagement to reduce knife crime
Dorset Police have intensified their efforts in combating knife crime as part of the national Sceptre campaign, running from 18th to 24th May 2026.
The initiative saw Dorset Police conducting proactive measures across the county, including executing warrants, visiting individuals known for knife crimes, and engaging in visible patrols and weapon sweeps in hotspots.
During the campaign, a search in Westby Road, Bournemouth, led to the recovery of a flick knife, suspected drugs, and cash, resulting in the arrest of a 43-year-old man.
In Weymouth, weapons such as a Rambo knife, samurai swords, and throwing knives were seized during a warrant execution, although no arrests have been made as investigations continue.
Test purchases highlighted the sale of knives to minors in some local shops, prompting talks with proprietors and involvement from Trading Standards.
Community engagement events, including school presentations and educational webinars for parents, were part of the campaign's outreach efforts.
The police emphasised their continued commitment to reducing knife crime, urging retailers to comply with age verification laws when selling knives.
Detective Superintendent Andy Bell, knife crime lead for Dorset Police, said: “Sceptre week is a crucial part of our ongoing efforts to tackle knife crime.
“Our focused work throughout the week has led to more knives being removed from the streets, and these results are testament to the hard work of police officers and staff, supporting partners and the co-operation of the public.
“I would like to re-iterate that rates of knife crime in Dorset are low and have continued to decrease year on year. However, we will not be complacent and continuing to reduce knife crime remains a priority for the Force.
"I would also like to remind those retailers selling knives of their responsibilities to not sell knives or bladed articles to anyone who appears to be under the age of 18 in the absence of approved identification. We will continue our work around the sale of knives and take enforcement action to those who breach this legislation."
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “Sceptre demonstrates our unwavering commitment to keeping Dorset one of the safest places in the country. I want to thank our officers and staff for their outstanding work throughout the week – targeting those who are known to carry knives, removing weapons from our streets, engaging directly with communities and educating young people about the very real dangers of carrying a knife are essential. Their professionalism and dedication make a tangible difference.
"I’m also pleased that, working in partnership with Dorset Police, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner helped deliver an educational webinar for parents, with strong engagement from our communities. The recording has now been shared more widely with over 200 recipients, ensuring that vital prevention messages continue to reach families across Dorset.
"Tackling knife crime is about robust, relentless enforcement, effective education and prevention programmes and working with our partners to take positive action and this week has shown the strength of the combined approach.
"I am absolutely determined that we will continue to do everything in our power to keep knife crime down and keep Dorset’s communities safe.”