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142 weapons handed in during knife amnesty

Credit: Hampshire Police

One hundred and forty two weapons have been handed in during Southampton's knife amnesty.

Bins were placed outside Southampton Central and Portswood Police stations throughout the last month in a bid to reduce drug-related knife crime in the city.

A 33% reduction in crime has been recorded compared with the previous month.

Credit: Hampshire Police

Officers also carried out search warrants and patrols to seize weapons and disrupt violent drug-related crime.

Sixteen people were arrested for drug offences and for carrying weapons.

Twenty people and 11 vehicles were searched.

Credit: Hampshire Police

“We are really pleased with the results of this amnesty. Tackling violent crime is a priority for us and we can help protect people from harm by working together and carrying out these kind of campaigns. Our message to those people who insist on bringing violence to the streets of Southampton remains the same, we will take robust action against anyone found to be illegally in possession of a knife or bladed article in this city.”

– Sergeant Charlie Ilderton, Southampton Central Neighbourhood Team