Seven arrests during knife crime crackdown across Suffolk
More than 300 weapons were surrendered during the course of the week
Seven people have been arrested during a week of action to tackle knife crime across Suffolk.
Police officers carried out patrols, weapons sweeps and stop and searches in several places in the county between May 16 and May 22.
Four were arrested for knife-related offences.
Officers also visited schools to raise awareness about knife crime.
Over 330 blades and other weapons were handed in throughout the week.
Police also carried out a raid on a home in Fore Hamlet in Ipswich on May 18 and a number of weapons were seized.
A 17-year-old boy from Ipswich, 18-year-old Shafeeno O’Connor, of Nacton Crescent in Ipswich and 22-year-old Jerome Greaves, of Highfield Road in Felixstowe, have been charged with being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs.
The 17 year old has been bailed, while the two men have been remanded in custody.
Sergeant Andy Kirk, of Suffolk Constabulary, said:
“We understand some members of the public expressed concerns during our week of action regarding the potential consequences of carrying a knife to amnesty bins.
"The best way to legally dispose of an old and unwanted knife – such as a kitchen knife – is to securely wrap them before carrying them, with puncture-proof plastic or place them in a secured, metal container.
"Blunt knives can also be handed to staff at your local tip to ensure they are safely recycled.
“Knife crime destroys lives and impacts not only individuals, but also families and communities which is why we carry out regular proactive operations as part of our ongoing commitment to take as many knives and weapons off our streets as possible.
“If you are worried that someone you know is carrying a knife, please report it. You might just save a life.”