Local knife amnesty launch

The local police force has launched a crackdown on illegal possession of knives as part of Operation Sceptre, a national week of action that runs until September 24.

The aim of the week is to increase awareness about the dangers of carrying knives and the laws around buying and selling knives and blades.

Our local amnesty bin will be located at Newtown Police Station from Monday-Friday 8am-8pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9am-5pm. No questions will be asked at the point of surrender, and no paperwork will be taken.

The force will use intelligence to target people are suspected of carrying in public.

Superintendent for specialist operations Craig Templeton said: “We will be doing all we can to spread the message that carrying a knife is not ok. We are keen to reach out to members of the public who may have information about knife carriers, and I would encourage anyone with information to have the confidence to come forward and report it by calling 101.”

During this week, officers will be using their powers to stop and search individuals who are believed to be carrying knives. Educational visits to schools, colleges and youth clubs are also planned, to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying knives among young people and their teachers.

Shops and businesses are being asked to put in robust controls on the sale of blades, such as kitchen knives, as part of the operation.

For more information about Operation Sceptre and the laws around carrying knives, visit www.dyfed-powys.police.uk.