Hundreds of knives were surrendered to police stations across the county of Hertfordshire last week, during an amnesty conducted by Operation Sceptre.
310 in total were given up, with a wide variety in items, including machetes, hunting knives, swords, pocket knives and kitchen knives. 102 alone were surrendered in the Hertsmere area.
Knife amnesties are being carried out more regularly following public concerns in knife crime across the country, with this most recent one beginning on Monday, May 16 and ending on Sunday, May 22.
During the week, other activities were also carried out as part of the campaign against knife crime, including events in schools and public areas and retail visits, reminding traders to ensure they are adhering to laws banning knife sales to those under the age of 18.
Covert and high visibility patrols were also conducted in various locations across the county as part of knife detection operations.
Leader of the campaign Inspector Nicola Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s crime reduction unit, said: “There is always a great response from local residents during our weeks of action and we always get lots of positive feedback from all the young people we speak to as part of our activities.
“The Prevention First approach we take in Hertfordshire means that we ensure that everybody understands the consequences and the penalties associated with knife crime. By working with local schools, colleges, charities and councils, we steer young people towards positive life choices. We help the to understand the dangers knives pose, as well as ensure that knives are not readily available, whether online, in shops or passed around in the community.”
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