Knife amnesty in Suffolk
It's part of Operation Sceptre
Knives can be surrendered, without fear of prosecution in Suffolk this week (15-21 November).
The county's police force is taking part in Operation Sceptre to help rid the streets of blades and weapons. It's being backed by 44 police forces across the country.
The week’s activity includes educational talks and workshops in schools and colleges across Suffolk where Schools Liaison Officers and Community Engagement Officers will be working with partners in delivering information on knife crime, County Lines and gangs.
Community Engagement Officers will also be speaking with members of the public about knife crime and encouraging them to report relevant information in their area, as well as speaking with local retail stores to ensure the safe sale of knives.
Throughout the week officers will use intelligence-led deployments, weapons sweeps and high-visibility patrols to target and disrupt offenders who carry and use knives.
Inspector James Tallowin said:
“We have a range of activities planned for the week, including community engagement days and targeted patrols in hotspot areas. Early intervention is vital so we are continuing to work with schools to educate pupils on the consequences of carrying a knife. Retailers also play a crucial role in helping us keep the public safe against knife crime, and we will be working closely with them to ensure compliance with the law.
“We encourage parents and carers to talk about knife crime in a family setting. There is plenty of useful information available on our website as well as advice for young people about gang/County Lines culture and how to leave a gang. I urge parents and teenagers to take time to look at the pages.
“I would also encourage people to come forward if they know anyone in their community who is carrying a knife. All reports are recorded as intelligence which helps us build a better picture of what’s happening in certain areas. The impact of knife crime on families and communities is devastating. Working together with communities and our partners is essential to take as many knives and weapons off our streets as possible.”
Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said:
“Operation Sceptre gives the Constabulary an opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime – I fully support this work. It is so important we work with schools, businesses and parents as we will only make a difference if we work together.
“Talking about the consequences 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 a growing problem 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.”
Anyone with information on knife crime is asked to contact Suffolk Police on 101, or pass information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Knife amnesty bins across the county give people the opportunity to dispose of knives and blades safely. Three knife bins are located in Ipswich (outside the Fire Station, Queen’s Way and Bramford Road) and at police stations in Lowestoft, Bury St Edmunds, Mildenhall, Sudbury and Haverhill and in Stowmarket at the junction of Stricklands Road and Ipswich Street.