In a significant move to address knife-related offences, Merseyside Police, in collaboration with partners, executed Operation Sceptre, resulting in the removal of almost 250 knives and dangerous weapons from the streets. The operation, which unfolded during a national week of action from Monday 13 November to Sunday 19 November, aimed to target individuals carrying weapons, prevent knife-related incidents, raise awareness about the perils of knife crime, and provide alternative pathways for young people.
This initiative comes in the wake of the recently released Office of National Statistics (ONS) annual report, revealing a commendable 22% decrease in knife crime in Merseyside during 2022-2023 compared to the previous year. This reduction stands as one of the highest among all counties nationally. Despite this achievement, Merseyside Police remains steadfast in its commitment to further diminish knife crime and its profound impact on individuals, families, and the broader community.
A key component of Operation Sceptre was the knife surrender initiative, spanning 10 police stations across Merseyside. The public’s response was noteworthy, with 170 weapons, including swords, flick knives, and other bladed articles prohibited under the Offensive Weapons Act, voluntarily turned in. Simultaneously, proactive efforts, such as stop searches and weapons sweeps, led to the recovery of an additional 77 weapons and the apprehension of 35 individuals.
Merseyside Police is actively participating in a trial for Serious Violence Reduction Orders (SVROs), a pioneering approach aimed at monitoring individuals with live orders and conducting stop searches in public spaces. Collaborating with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the force has successfully secured 50 orders to date.
Throughout the week, officers engaged with communities through 64 community meetings and school events, fostering thought-provoking and informative discussions. The sessions delved into the dangers of carrying knives, the repercussions of such actions, and the comprehensive strategies employed by the police to address the issue.
In a heartening display of community involvement, a group of secondary school students took part in creating knife crime prevention posters. These visually striking posters featured powerful messages like “no more violence” and “Less knives, more lives,” underscoring the collective effort to convey an anti-knife message.
The multi-faceted approach of Operation Sceptre extends beyond enforcement to educational initiatives. Merseyside Police, in conjunction with the Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership (MVRP), conducted various programs, including the Mentors in Violence Prevention initiative. This program equips young people with the language, behaviors, and skills to address the underlying issues that often contribute to violence.
Additionally, Knifesavers training events held at Aintree University Hospital focused on educating local community members on how to respond to a knife injury and control bleeding using specialized bleeding control kits. A “train the trainer” session empowered individuals to deliver these sessions across Merseyside, ensuring widespread dissemination of life-saving skills.
The success of Operation Sceptre echoes not only in the tangible reduction of weapons on the streets but also in the engagement and awareness fostered within communities. Merseyside Police, alongside its partners, remains resolute in its mission to create safer streets and a brighter future for its residents.
