Nearly 400 knives and offensive weapons have been taken off Hampshire streets following a week of action aimed at tackling knife crime – with police activity carried out in Andover and surrounding areas throughout the operation.
The national Op Sceptre week ran from 17–23 November and saw Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary step up enforcement, prevention, and community engagement work.
Across the county, officers conducted:
- 19 hotspot patrols
- 31 weapon sweeps
- 216 community engagement activities
- 82 test-purchasing checks at local retailers
- 56 school and college visits, reaching around 5,000 young people
In total, 385 offensive weapons were surrendered into amnesty bins placed across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Officers also made eight knife-related arrests and seized additional weapons during stop-and-search activity.
Work in schools and colleges
Police teams visited schools, youth groups and colleges – including outreach events in North Hampshire – to talk to young people about the risks and consequences of carrying a knife.
Officers from the Education Partnership Team delivered workshops focused on myth-busting, early intervention, and recognising how young people can be drawn into violence or exploitation.
Retail test purchases
One of this year’s key national priorities was ensuring knives cannot be bought by under-18s.
Of the 82 retailers visited, 73 passed. The nine that failed have been referred to Trading Standards.
Enforcement and partnership work
Alongside neighbourhood teams, the force worked jointly with British Transport Police, carrying out operations at stations across the region. One man was arrested for Class A drugs possession near Basingstoke station, and further stop-and-search activity recovered Class B drugs.
Police also supported community initiatives, including boxing clubs and youth engagement projects, designed to steer young people away from violence.
‘Every knife removed could save a life’
Inspector James Barton, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary’s tactical lead for knife crime, said the results show the importance of combining enforcement with education:
“Every knife taken off the streets reduces the risk of serious harm and saves lives. Our operation is not just about enforcement – it’s about prevention, education and working with communities. Carrying a knife does not keep you safe; it puts you at greater risk.”
PCC: “Just one knife can kill”
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones added:
“While it’s encouraging to see nearly 400 weapons handed in, just one can kill. Through the Violence Reduction Unit we continue to work with police, councils and schools to identify those most at risk and support them.”
Reporting concerns
Anyone worried about knife crime can contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.