Knife Crime Slashed by Nearly a Quarter in Kent Thanks to Tough Policing
Knife crime in Kent has taken a nosedive, dropping by almost 25%, official Government data reveals. Strong policing and targeted operations are behind the sharp decrease, with 226 fewer offences recorded.
Sharp Drop in Knife Crime Figures
The latest Office of National Statistics data compares the year ending March 2020 to the same period in 2019. Importantly, these numbers predate the COVID-19 lockdown, showing the impact isn’t pandemic-related.
Kent Police’s no-nonsense approach, including regular participation in the national Operation Sceptre, has proved highly effective in hunting down and arresting knife carriers.
Big Busts and Targeted Raids
- On July 11, Medway Community Policing teamed up with British Transport Police at Gillingham Train Station, seizing two knives and class A drugs. Two teenagers were arrested for carrying weapons.
- A Canterbury burglar was jailed for four years on July 15 after threatening homeowners with a knife during break-ins.
- In Folkestone, a suspected drug dealer was charged this week after officers found class A drugs and a lock knife in his car.
Uniformed and plain-clothed officers regularly patrol hotspots, targeting habitual knife carriers with zero tolerance.
Education and Community Outreach Tackling Knife Crime
The fight against knife crime isn’t just about arrests. Police Community Support Officers and volunteer cadets visit schools, colleges, and youth clubs across Kent to promote safer choices among youngsters.
Over the past year, officers have delivered talks and shared powerful stories aiming to cut knife crime, reduce related offences, and tackle anti-social behaviour in communities.
‘Kent Stands Firm Against Knife Crime’
Kent Police Deputy Chief Constable Tony Blaker said: “This reduction in reports of knife crime is testament to the hard work of our officers taking a zero-tolerance approach to knives and weapons in our communities.”
“Our officers are committed to removing dangerous weapons through targeted enforcement and education.”
“We’re sending a clear message: carry a knife in Kent, and you risk arrest, prosecution, and a tough punishment.”
“Kent is a safe county, and we intend to keep it that way. Knife crime will not be tolerated.”
