Knife crime prevention efforts continue into the weekend in Bedfordshire
It's part of a national initiative to tackle knife offences in prevention, education and response
Bedfordshire Police are stepping up efforts to tackle knife crime as part of Operation Sceptre, a national campaign aimed at reducing knife-related incidents through enforcement and education.
The initiative sees increased police activity across the county, with a focus on hotspots, schools, and community outreach to address the root causes of knife crime.
John Tizard, Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire, said: "This operation is about reducing the number of knives on the streets and discouraging people from carrying them.
"Particularly young people, but not exclusively—it’s far better to prevent and educate than to take knives off people after harm has been done."
During the campaign, police intensify stop-and-search operations, patrol high-risk areas, and use knife surrender bins to encourage voluntary handovers of weapons.
Alongside enforcement, educational visits to schools and community engagement aim to prevent knife crime before it happens.
"The education diversion team and community officers are out in schools this week." said Mr Tizard.
"But prevention is not just the responsibility of the police. It requires collaboration with local authorities, schools, community groups, and, crucially, parents."
The initiative builds on long-term efforts by Bedfordshire Police to make knife crime a priority.
Recent changes in legislation, including the ban on zombie-style knives, are also aiding the fight against knife crime.
These weapons, often designed specifically to cause harm, are now illegal to own or sell.
Mr Tizard said: "We’ve seen a decline in knife-related arrests and reported incidents over the past three months.
"I hope that’s linked to the ban and our ongoing education efforts, but we must stay vigilant."
Parents and families affected by knife crime are playing a crucial role in raising awareness.
Campaigns like Just Drop It feature powerful testimonies from those who have lost loved ones or seen their children involved in knife-related offences.
"Hearing from parents who have experienced this tragedy is incredibly impactful," said Mr Tizard.
"Their stories are heartfelt and can resonate more strongly than anything we might say. They remind us of the shared responsibility we all have to address this issue."
Reducing knife crime is a key priority in the Police and Crime Commissioner's crime plan, which aims for a 50% reduction over the next decade.
However, he stressed that success will depend on collective action.
"Police can’t solve this alone," he said. "We need a partnership approach involving schools, community groups, local authorities, and families. It’s about changing attitudes and sending a clear message that carrying a knife is never the answer."