Operation Sceptre starts today

Operation Sceptre, the nationwide initiative to tackle knife crime across the UK in an intensified week of action, begins today Monday 13th May.   

Throughout the week of action, Cleveland Police will coordinate activity to target knife crime from the root cause right through to enforcement.

As always, Op Sceptre will focus on education and engagement activity, with enhanced enforcement over the week. Carriers are encouraged to surrender weapons anonymously to any of our knife amnesty bins, which are located at our four main police stations - Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton and Hartlepool.

Acting Inspector Sarah Beadle, who is leading on the week of action said: ““Everyday police officers see first-hand the devastating effects of carrying bladed weapons.

"It is particularly concerning to see young people involved and hurt in these crimes, but we will do all we can to engage, educate and encourage them not to carry a knife. It isn’t normal behaviour, very few young people do carry a knife, but with numbers rising on Teesside we want to ensure that there is help and guidance for anyone who needs it.”

For more information on where to seek help if you think that someone you know may be carrying a knife, please visit Carrying a blade doesn't give you an edge | Cleveland Police