Two arrested following incident involving weapons in Southampton

Officers have arrested two people following an incident involving weapons in Guildhall Square.  

We were called at 4.30pm yesterday, Thursday, 29 April to a report of around three people fighting in Guildhall Square, Southampton, armed with knives.

Officers attended and arrested a 17-year-old boy, from Southampton, on suspicion of affray and possession of Class A drugs and an 18-year-old man, also from Southampton, on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

No-one was injured.

Both remain in custody at this time and are being questioned to ascertain exactly what happened.

Speaking in general about knife crime, Inspector Allan Dineley from Southampton Central’s Neighbourhood Police team said “Our officers and staff are working tirelessly with partners, including our communities, to tackle serious violence and knife crime.

“We have a complex task trying to reach individuals motivated or pressured to carry knives, therefore in order to deliver lasting long-term change, it not only requires efforts on behalf of the police, but in local schools, charities, from friends and family members, as well as from prominent members of the community.

“We know there are a variety of reasons that individuals choose to carry a knife, including for acceptance among their peers or that they may just be afraid. By understanding these reasons and continuing to educate young people, we hope to ensure young people know it is a crime to carry a knife, but also that the risk of injuring themselves is increased as a result.

“The ripples of serious violence and knife crime are far reaching, it effects the victims, their families, and our communities, which is why we are committed to tackling knife crime and reduce serious violence in Southampton to make our city a safer place for all.”