Northumbria Police launch Operation Sceptre to tackle knife crime in the region

Northumbria Police has launched Operation Sceptre - a dedicated week of activity which aims to tackle knife crime.

With the tagline “ditch a knife and save lives”, officers from Northumbria Police have been carrying out programmes of activity throughout the year to target offenders and educate young people about the dangers of knives.

Work has also been carried out by Trading Standards teams to ensure retailers are following the correct policies when it comes to selling sharp objects.

Starting on Monday, May 13, Operation Sceptre will run all week until Sunday, May 19, and will see dedicated officers executing warrants as well as working alongside partner organisations at transport hubs across the region, to seize harmful weapons. 

Northumbria Police will use this week to build on the work already done by the Force to tackle knife crime with targeted patrols and searches across the area. 

They will also head to local schools to deliver talks on the extreme dangers of carrying knives.

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Members of the public are being encouraged to hand over unwanted sharp items or knives to be disposed of properly at a number of surrender bins placed across Tyne and Wear.

Surrender bins will be at the following stations until Sunday, May 19.

• Bedlington and Hexham stations in Northumberland

• Middle Engine Lane in Wallsend

• Forth Banks and Etal Lane in Newcastle

• Gateshead

• Millbank in South Shields 

• Southwick in Sunderland

Chief Superintendent Joanne Park-Simmons, Northumbria Police’s knife crime lead,  has outlined the week of action, as she said: “As a Force, we sadly know all too well the utter devastation that knife crime can cause, not only to the victims and their families but also the loved ones and friends of those who carry out such violence.

“We are under no illusions of the work that is required to combat knife crime, and each and every day our officers are tasked to target those individuals who cause harm in our communities.

“Operation Sceptre is a great opportunity for us to carry out enhanced activity in this area, targeting offenders, getting weapons out of circulation and educating young people on why they should under no circumstances be carrying knives.”

Chief Supt Park-Simmons added: “We are also calling on the public to help us by playing their part.

“Please use the opportunity provided this week to hand in any unwanted knives or sharp objects so there is no chance that they can fall into the wrong hands.

“If you do have concerns about someone in possession of a knife, don’t hesitate to contact us so that we can take the appropriate action or alternatively get in touch with Crimestoppers.

“And we’d urge parents and carers to have those difficult conversations with youngsters about the huge dangers of carrying knives.

“Together, we can keep our region safe and further reduce knife crime incidents in our communities.”

Those who have information about someone who is in possession of a prohibited weapon, or want to report any suspicious activity relating to knife crime, please get in touch with us via the ‘Report’ page on the Northumbria Police website.

Alternatively, speak to the charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111. If a crime is taking place, always call 999.