Cumbria Constabulary is supporting a national, week-long knife surrender, beginning tomorrow (14 November 2022).

Op Sceptre will aim to remove potentially dangerous and harmful blades from our streets.

This will be the second such operation the county has supported this year, with the previous one held in May during which 80 knives were surrendered.

Chief Inspector Gill Cherry said:

“Any incident that escalates to the point where a knife is pulled has the potential to end in tragedy – often for the person in possession of the blade.

“Our officers regularly see the terrible outcomes which can result in someone carrying a knife as they walk the streets.

“Cumbria is one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit and we wish to keep it that way.

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

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.

Chief Inspector Cherry said:

“This is the ideal time for someone who is in possession of a knife or bladed article they know they should not have, or perhaps someone who has come across an old knife in the loft, to safely and securely take it out of circulation.

“It is a quick process and your action will help make your community a safer place.”

During the week, officers will be going into schools in the county to educate young people on the dangers of knife possession – both to themselves and others.

Police 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.