Police seize nearly 300 knives in week-long op

West Mercia Police seized 296 knives during the week-long operation

Police have recovered nearly 300 surrendered knives across Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire as part of Sceptre, a national initiative to tackle knife crime.

The operation focused on the sale of bladed articles by retailers, with West Mercia Police conducting 202 visits.

Test purchases were carried out at 42 retailers, and 15 of them failed to challenge for ID of age, the force said.

"This is good example of how we all have a part to play in protecting our communities and not letting knives get into the wrong hands," said Supt Edward Hancox, head of prevention for the force.

"By law, you must be 18 or older to buy a knife, but we encourage retailers to follow the Challenge 25 policy and ask for ID from anyone seeking to buy a knife who looks under 25."

A total of 296 knives were recovered during the operation.

'Knives don't keep you safe'

Other activity carried out as part of the operation included community engagement, patrols, and stop and searches.

Four knife-related arrests were made, and two stop-and-searches of suspects led to knives being recovered.

"Nobody should ever be a victim of knife crime. Those who choose to carry one need to remember that using a knife doesn't just impact the victim," said Supt Hancox.

"It also has an immeasurable effect on the family and friends of the victim, and emergency services who respond.

"Carrying knives or other weapons does not keep you safe. It puts you in greater danger, and you are more likely to become involved in a violent situation and be injured yourself or even killed."