Knife-Threat Rampage Rocks Portsmouth
A vicious gang spree saw six knife-point robberies sweep through Portsmouth in just two days, leaving victims shaken but unhurt.
Streets Targeted in Busy Night of Fear
- Nov 3, 10-10.15pm, Guildhall Square: Two men threatened by a group wielding knives. Perpetrators snatched a designer coat and AirPods from one, cash from the other.
- Nov 3, 10.50pm, Commercial Road: Six men threatened a man with a knife but made off empty-handed.
- Nov 3, 11pm, Canal Walk: Six men held up a man at knifepoint, stealing his wallet which contained a bank card later used fraudulently. A friend’s phone was also taken.
- Nov 4, 7pm, Commercial Road: Four men threatened a man with a knife and stole his phone.
- Nov 4, 10.40pm, Isambard Brunel Road: Six men robbed a man of his jacket, electric scooter, and wallet stuffed with bank cards.
Youth Arrests as Police Crack Down Under #OpSceptre
Police have nailed six suspects aged 17 to 19 from Portsmouth for robbery and knifepoint attacks linked to the incidents. The arrests come amid increased patrols tied to the national #OpSceptre campaign fighting knife crime.
Inspector Scott Johnson said: “We know the harm that knife crime can cause to our communities, particularly our young people. It’s often linked to drug-related harm, robbery, and domestic issues, with fear driving people to carry weapons.
“We want to prevent crime before it happens. No young person should ever be hurt or caught up in this. If anyone feels threatened or at risk, we are here to help.”
“We’ll keep up robust pre-planned operations this week to stamp out knife crime and protect our city.”
No Serious Injuries, But Fear Looms
Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt during these terrifying attacks, but the chilling rise in knifepoint robberies has residents on edge. The police vow to stay vigilant and crack down hard on offenders to keep Portsmouth safe.
