Knife crime crackdown in Liverpool city centre
Police will be putting up knife arches in Liverpool city centre this weekend and next, as part of a crackdown on knife crime.
Knife arches will be in use across Liverpool city centre this weekend and over Aintree races weekend, as police crack down on people bringing weapons into town.
The high visibility patrols are being carried out to offer reassurance to the public and support to licensed premises.
This weekend, Friday 1 April and Saturday 2 April, and next weekend, officers will be in identified hotspot locations across the city using knife arches. They will also be offering guidance, support and advice as well as visiting licensed premises and carrying out high visibility patrols.
Chief Superintendent Mark Wiggins said: "Liverpool has a well-deserved reputation as a safe and vibrant place to enjoy a night out and we want that to continue.
"This month we are expecting a large number of people to descend on the city – not only to enjoy the night life but also to attend major events including the Grand National at Aintree.
"We want people to feel confident and safe in the knowledge that they will be able to come to Liverpool and have a great night out without any worries.
"The Force is committed to reducing violent crime and keeping the streets of the city safe and we are continually working with licensees and partner agencies to ensure that Liverpool remains a safe and popular place to visit.
"Unfortunately there is a minority who feel that they want to take matters into their own hands but I want to reiterate that we will take decisive action against anyone found to be committing offences."