Kent Police Crack Down on Knife Crime in Operation Sceptre
Kent Police went all out last week in the fight against knife crime during the nationwide Operation Sceptre campaign. Running from 26 April to 2 May 2021, the blitz saw cops swoop across Kent with a wave of arrests and stop-and-searches targeting anyone carrying blades.
54 Arrested, 351 Stop-and-Searches
During the week, officers in both uniform and plain clothes nabbed 54 suspects linked to knife offences. They also carried out a staggering 351 stop-and-searches across Kent. British Transport Police helped out, targeting train stations with knife arches and sniffer dogs. At Canterbury East station, a man caught with a lock knife was promptly arrested.
Weapon sweeps were also conducted in hotspots like Temple Hill, Dartford; Knightrider Court car park in Maidstone; and public parks in Folkestone. A total of 72 knives were seized, including 20 voluntarily handed in by members of the public.
“Tackling knife crime remains a force priority,” said Detective Superintendent Shaun White. “Operation Sceptre helps us work closer with partners to get weapons off the streets. Our units continue targeting criminals who bring fear and violence to Kent.”
Retailers Warned and Tested
Officers visited nearly 50 retailers to remind them about laws surrounding knife sales, urging shops to display age restriction posters and safety advice. In Maidstone, plain-clothes cops carried out test purchases at four stores — and all sellers complied, questioning the officer’s need for the knives and their age.
Clamping Down on County Lines Gangs
The week also focused on dismantling violent county lines drug networks crossing from London into Kent. On 27 April, Policing Minister Kit Malthouse joined officers raiding a property in Chatham’s Melville Court. Seized goods included a large machete, other knives, plus large amounts of crack cocaine and heroin.
Jacob Laws, 18, and Leonard Warner, 19, both charged with drug supply offences, remain remanded in custody ahead of a Maidstone Crown Court hearing on 27 May.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Graham McNulty, National Police Chiefs’ lead on knife crime, said: “Knife crime devastates communities. Enforcement is vital, but tackling root causes and involving others beyond policing is key. We want safe communities and to stop knife incidents before they happen.”
Speak Up to Save Lives
If you suspect someone is carrying a knife or involved in knife crime, contact Kent Police on 101. Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.
