Campaign launched across Suffolk to tackle knife crime

Efforts to tackle knife crime across Suffolk is being stepped up this week.

The latest Operation Sceptre campaign runs from today, Monday, November 14, to Sunday, November 20, and will see officers carrying out high visibility patrols and engaging with the community at schools and colleges to alert young people to the threat of County Lines and drug gangs. The action will include visits to local retailers to ensure knives are sold safely and conducting weapon sweeps in public.

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “Working together to beat knife crime is exactly what we need to do if we are going to make a difference in Suffolk. I fully support Operation Sceptre as it gives the Constabulary a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime with schools, businesses and parents.

“Talking about the implications of carrying a knife – both at home and at school – is so important. As a parent I know how difficult these conversations can be, but I would urge parents and carers to take advantage of Operation Sceptre’s week of action to broach the subject at home.

“Knife crime is an increasing problem nationally and it’s got to stop. Carrying a knife doesn’t make you safe and sadly, as we all know, it can lead to dreadful consequences.”

Sergeant Andrew Kirk said: “This latest week of action highlights our continuing commitment to tackle knife-related crime. We work with local councils, schools, colleges and youth services, pubs and clubs, the British Transport Police, Crimestoppers and Trading Standards to keep our communities safer.

“Early intervention is key and we want parents and carers to talk about knife crime in a family setting. There is a lot of information available on our website as well as advice for young people about gang/County Lines culture and how to leave a gang.”

For more information and advice regarding Having The Conversation see http://www.suffolk.police.uk/advice/personal-safety/knife-crime/having-conversation

Knife amnesty bins across the county also give people the opportunity to dispose of knives and blades safely.

Three knife bins are located in Ipswich (Princes Street outside the Fire Station, Queen’s Way and Bramford Road) and at police stations in Lowestoft, Bury St Edmunds, Sudbury, and Haverhill, at the Mildenhall Hub in Sheldrick Way and in Stowmarket at the junction of Stricklands Road and Ipswich Street.