The attempted murder of two young girls, by four boys, has launched a knife crime crackdown. “Operation Sceptre”, the week long operation, gives the police the power to carry out weapon searches. It also allows people to dispose of knives anonymously.
There are twelve places throughout London where the public can get rid of knives. In a bid to share the dangers of carrying knives, police will visit schools and places of education. Metal detectors and drug detection dogs are stationed around central transportation points including train station, bus stops and airports.
On Sunday afternoon, at 4:41pm, the police attended a site following an assault. Two girls, 16 and 17, have been stabbed. One remains in a stable but serious condition, and the other has been released.
Four teenage boys are due to stand trial for attempted murder. Sergeant Rob Merrett, Central South Command Unit, is urging for anyone with any information to come forward. The new crackdown on knives is an extension of an ongoing project that saw violent crimes reduce by 26% last year.
A similar incentive by Greater Manchester in November last year, saw 170 knives handed in and 82 people were arrested during the week long incentive.
Knife attacks – a worrying trend
A 14 year old boy, Fares Maatou, died on Friday afternoon. The teenager lost his life following the attack outside a pizza restaurant in Newham, East London. His unnecessary death was the thirty third murder in London this year, 24 of which have died as a result of knife crime.
On the 8th March 2021, the Government declared that £130.5 million would be invested in tackling knife crime. Home Secretary Priti Patel announced it will be used for a programme to prevent serious crime. The funding comes ahead of a major justice bill that will see the police given more power to stop and search anyone they think has a knife or weapon. It also calls for services such as education, armed forces and health agencies to work together and address serious issues.
A significant proportion, £23 million, has been invested in early prevention. This programme identifies crucial moments in a young persons life. Moments like an admission to A and E or if they are ever in trouble with the police, as a teach opportunity. A time for specially trained professionals to attempt to steer youths from a life of crime in the early stages.
For a full breakdown of the new funding, and what it can be used for, click here.
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