Teens arrested over weapons sold on social media

The teenagers were arrested as part of a nationwide crackdown on the online sale of knives and other weapons

Two boys have been arrested in connection with the sale of knives and weapons on social media sites.

The 16-year-olds, from Stourport-on-Severn in Worcestershire, were arrested by Merseyside Police on Thursday following a national operation led by the force to tackle the online sale of drugs and weapons across the country.

Weapons seized included extendable batons, machetes, swords, flick knives and a knuckle duster.

The teenagers were arrested on suspicion of offering to supply or sell an offensive weapon and unlawful marketing of knives. They are in custody and due to be questioned.

Det Sgt Kieran Connolly, from the force, said: "As part of the Force's Operation Target, we understand the devastating consequences of carrying a knife and are relentless in our approach to targeting and pursuing criminals.

"The use of knives and any weapons is reckless and will not be tolerated, and can have tragic consequences, not only for the victim and their family but also for the offenders involved."