Police stamp down knife crime in week-long operation

Cheshire Police have been praised for their work on a week-long operation tackling knife crime as part of campaign, Op Sceptre.

Officers used stop and search powers and visited the homes of those who are known to be involved in knife crime as well as working with partner agencies, such as Trading Standards, to speak to shop owners about the Challenge 25 campaign to stop the sale of knives to under 18s.

In Runcorn, 27 knives were collected, including those seized during incidents, those recovered during a knife sweep at The Knoll and those surrender to Runcorn Police Station.

Widnes Local Policing Unit also worked with members of the community to conduct a knife sweep in the Hough Green area.

Arrests were made during the week for a number of offences including possession of knives, offensive weapons and possession and supply of controlled drugs.

Chief Inspector Parsonage said "Knife crime remains a priority for us and we have seen some excellent results from this week of action.

"I want to reassure the community that we continue to focus on this important area and ensure those who would carry weapons in Widnes continue to be targeted and brought to justice.

"I would encourage anyone with information on those involved in knife crime to contact the police in confidence."

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, David Keane, said: "We have seen a huge effort from officers across the county taking action to help tackle knife crime.

"I’m pleased to see that a lot of effort has gone into educating youngsters about the issue and that we have been working closely with partners such as Trading Standards and Crimestoppers to spread those messages, as well as using stop and search powers and being proactive in taking knives off our streets."

If you have any information about this kind of crime, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively call Cheshire Police on 101 or submit information online.