Operation Sceptre results in Suffolk
Over 250 knives were handed in
Last updated 7th May 2021
Suffolk Constabulary made seven arrests as part of Operation Sceptre last week, the national week of action against knife crime.
The arrests were made in different parts of the county for possession of a knife offences and officers used intelligence-led deployments as part of the ongoing work with partners to tackle knife-based criminality, and associated gang activity.
A warrant was carried out in Burrell Road, Ipswich, resulting in eight knives being seized and four people being arrested on suspicion of drug offences.
Other activity during the week included intelligence led stop & searches, high visibility patrols including at Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds train stations, in partnership with British Transport Police. Officers carried out 22 weapons sweeps and recovered 7 knives. were. Schools Liaison Officers and Community Engagement Officers also supported more than 19 events in schools and colleges, delivering information on knife crime, County Lines and gangs to children, young people and teachers. This included assemblies and classroom talks with officers encouraging honest conversations around knife crime and to highlight to children and young people the dangers of carrying knives, as well officers distributing literature and posters.
Over 250 knives and bladed items were also recovered from the knife surrender amnesty bins across the county where people can dispose 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.
Inspector Matt Paisley, the operational lead for Op Sceptre, said:
"This was a really productive week for us in terms of addressing the national issue of knife crime. Despite the constraints of operating under COVID restrictions we continued to target those involved in County Lines, and carry out positive work with the community, residents and the engagement with schools. We were warmly received in schools and colleges and there were some really searching and intelligent questions from the children and young people on the topic of knife crime and gangs.
"It's important to point out that while this was a dedicated week of action, our work to tackle knife crime continues all year round. We will continue to highlight the dangers of carrying knives, and other weapons, and the devastating consequences this can have on the lives of young people. If you are found illegally in possession of a knife you will be arrested, put before the court and brought to justice."
Anyone with information on knife crime in their local community is asked to contact Suffolk Police on 101, or pass information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.