Sussex Police Launch Major Crackdown on Knife Crime
Sussex Police have stepped up their fight against knife crime in East Sussex with a blitz of proactive patrols, stop-and-searches, and weapon sweeps. Target areas include Eastbourne, Rother, Wealden, and Hastings as part of a multi-day action spree funded by the Home Office’s serious violence programme.
Weekend Action Sees Arrests and Weapons Seized
During a recent weekend operation in Hastings, officers made four arrests and confiscated seven weapons. On 5 September, a Hastings woman, 35, was caught with cannabis and admitted trying to smuggle a taser disguised as a torch – intercepted by UK Border Force. She was handed a community resolution, warned officially, and referred for an online drugs training course after surrendering a small hand axe.
Shortly after, police recovered a knife found hidden in a bush on Farley Bank.
Drug Drivers and Drug Dealers Targeted
The crackdown continued on 6 September at Falaise Skate Park, where a 30-year-old woman failed a drug test and was arrested on suspicion of drug driving. She has since been released under investigation.
Officers also stopped a group of young men acting suspiciously nearby. Searches revealed a large stash of cannabis and cash. Two 18-year-olds and a 19-year-old were arrested on suspicion of supplying Class B drugs and remain under investigation.
Weapons Haul Discovered in Subsequent Raids
Further searches at addresses linked to the suspects uncovered cannabis, two suspected gas pistols, a huge zombie knife, a machete, and a baseball bat – all taken off local streets to keep communities safe.
Police Appeal to the Public
Inspector Howard Nevill said: “Our priority is keeping local communities safe and feeling safe. That’s why we are devoting significant resources to engage with residents about knife crime and target offenders.
Sussex is a safe place to live. Although knife-related incidents remain low compared to the national picture, we are determined to keep these harmful items off our streets.
“It is a dangerous misconception that carrying a knife makes you safer. It actually puts you and those around you at greater risk. We encourage anyone who carries or is thinking of carrying a knife to seek help.
“We have amnesty bins at several police stations where knives can be safely disposed of – no questions asked.
“If you have information about knife crime, please report it online or call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. You can also report anonymously at fearless.org.”
