Hampshire Police Snatch 140 Knives Off the Streets in Operation Sceptre Blitz
Hampshire Constabulary went all out last week during Operation Sceptre, the national knife crime crackdown running from 11 to 17 March. Armed with high visibility patrols, weapon sweeps, and sting operations, officers seized a whopping 140 knives, sending a clear message to would-be blade carriers.
Knives Galore: Sweeps, Surrenders, and Seizures
- 55 weapon sweeps carried out, recovering 26 knives
- 19 knife-related arrests made
- 97 knives collected from surrender bins
- 25 test purchases at retailers, leading to six sales failures
- 50 public engagement and education events, including joint ops with British Transport Police and Ministry of Defence
Temporary Superintendent Claire Taylor, Hampshire’s knife crime lead, said: “Even though knife crime levels in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are low, the national rise is worrying. Tackling violence is a top priority, and this week’s action shows our commitment to cracking down on offenders and keeping communities safe.”
Cracking Down on Retailers and Keeping Communities Safe
Part of the operation focused on testing retailers to make sure they obey the law on selling knives to underage customers. “We also ramped up community engagement to educate the public on knife crime dangers and how they can help prevent it,” Taylor added. Hampshire’s police work closely with the Home Office’s Knife Free campaign, urging under-18s to ditch knives for good.
Taylor also revealed her role on the National Working Group, aiming to share best practices nationwide to reduce knife crime in Hampshire and beyond. The force is committed to the Home Office’s Serious Violence Strategy, working with partners and communities to tackle the root causes of knife crime.
Police and Crime Commissioner Backs Continued Effort
Michael Lane, Police and Crime Commissioner, praised the week of action:
“This is a crucial effort delivering significant results – not only in knives seized and arrests, but also through engagement with partners and communities. Reducing knife crime needs constant focus, with policing working alongside health, education, and youth support to tackle causes as well as crime.”
See Something, Say Something
Residents are urged to be vigilant. If you spot suspicious behaviour or know someone carrying a knife, speak up. Contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
