Knife crime week of action turns spotlight on online retail

Today (13 November) marks the start of Operation Sceptre, an initiative to tackle knife crime across the country which brings together all 43 police forces and British Transport Police in a week of intensified action.

Throughout the week of action, forces will coordinate activity which targets knife crime from the root cause right through to enforcement. This November, Op Sceptre will specifically focus on tackling and disrupting the importation and supply of knives, particularly the growing accessibility of dangerous knives which can be purchased online.  

Commander Stephen Clayman is National Police Chiefs’ Council knife crime lead. He explains:

“We have been growing increasingly concerned about the wide range of knives which can be purchased online and while age verification is required for purchases, there is little requirement for additional checks to be made.

“We know there have been several murders in recent years where the knives used have been purchased online and we are also aware that some individuals are buying large quantities and selling them on through social media sites like TikTok and Telegram."

Inspector Sarah Nicholson, Tactical lead for Knife Crime for Hampshire and Isle of Wight said: “Op Sceptre will include all of the usual operational tactics including education and engagement activity, knife surrender bins, weapons sweeps and hot spot patrols but we’re also looking to build a comprehensive picture of online retailers across the country which will help to inform our engagement moving forward.

“Our approach has also been significantly strengthened with the proposed legislative changes which are being progressed to reduce the availability of certain types of machetes and to increase policing powers to seize knives. These offer additional robust measures to deal with those who seek to use knives for violence. Ultimately, when used appropriately, they provide a greater means to protect the public and safeguard our communities. 

“Every day as police officers we see first-hand the devastating effects of these deadly weapons on the lives of individuals, particularly young people and we must always look at what action can be taken to restrict the supply chain and prevent access to knives that are used for violence, intimidation and harm.” 

The knife surrender bins will be located at the following police stations during the week of action: Op Sceptre 2023 | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary