A week of action targeting knife crime across Ilkeston and the wider Erewash area has seen 39 knives safely surrendered, along with a series of school visits, community events and enforcement activities.
Derbyshire Police took part in Operation Sceptre, a national initiative aimed at reducing knife-related harm and raising awareness of the consequences of carrying a weapon. Over the course of the week, local officers delivered educational sessions to all age groups at schools and youth groups, focusing on real-world risks, the law, and how young people can make safer choices.
As part of the operation, officers also carried out knife sweeps in parks, open spaces and other community areas across Ilkeston, checking for hidden or discarded weapons.
Community events draw strong support
Two public events were held during the week: one at Ilkeston Town Football Club and another at an Emergency Services Day on Ilkeston Market Place, where residents met officers, learned about knife crime prevention and asked questions about safety in their area.
But the standout figure was the 39 knives dropped into the police amnesty bin, meaning dozens of potentially dangerous weapons have now been taken out of circulation.
Police said the result was “fantastic”, adding that each surrendered knife was one less opportunity for a weapon to be used in crime or cause serious injury.
Victims urged to report
Officers emphasised that anyone who has been a victim of knife crime, or has information about someone carrying a weapon, should report it.
There are several ways to get in touch:
Report directly to Derbyshire Police:
• Through the online reporting tools on the force website
• Via private message to the Derbyshire Constabulary Facebook page
• By calling 101
Report anonymously:
• Contact CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111
• Submit information anonymously at the CrimeStoppers website
Police thanked everyone who spoke to them during the week, attended events, or supported the operation in any way.
Operation Sceptre will continue to run throughout the year with future activity planned.
Ilkeston News