Cumbria Constabulary is supporting a national, week-long knife crime campaign, beginning on Monday (15 May 2023).

Op Sceptre will aim to remove potentially dangerous and harmful blades from our streets, giving opportunity for members of the public to dispose of knives anonymously and safely in amnesty bins at local Police Stations.

As part of the week, officers will be going into schools to help educate young people regarding the potential disastrous consequences resulting from carrying a knife, whilst neighbourhood policing team officers will be carrying out test purchasing operations to ensure retailers are not selling knives to children.

Chief Inspector Steve Hunter said: “Any incident that escalates to the point where a knife is pulled has the potential to end in tragedy – and it can often be for the person in possession of the blade.

“Cumbria is one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit however we have had some high-profile incidents, some of which have ended in people losing their lives.

“It is important that, as a community, we do not take knife crime lightly if we are to maintain Cumbria’s position as one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit.

“I would urge people to take this opportunity to speak with family members about the dangers knives pose.”

Someone in possession of a knife is not only increasing the risk of harm to themselves but could also face a fine of £5,000 and a four-year prison sentence.

Ch Insp Hunter said: “This coming week provides an ideal opportunity to come forward and rid themselves of a knife, anonymously. It is a quick process and your action will help make your community a safer place.

“Every knife or blade that is handed in is one less weapon which could fall into the wrong hands.

Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “Being in possession of a weapon means that it is more likely to be used – it is not worth the risk.

“No one wants to be involved in an incident involving a knife, as it can have a serious effect on people’s lives and, in the worst-case scenario, could be fatal.

“I would urge anyone who has a potentially dangerous weapon in their home to surrender it to your local police station.

“Let’s work together to make Cumbria an even safer place to live.”

Anyone wishing to hand a knife or bladed article in should put them in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public.  Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.

The stations where you can hand your knives or bladed articles in are:

To check on opening times please visit: Cumbria Police Stations – Cumbria Constabulary

If you are worried about the someone who is in possession of a knife or need advice, please contact police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.