Police Take Action on Knife Crime as Part of Operation in Brighton

Police are working to disrupt criminal activity and raise awareness.

Police working to disrupt criminal activity and raise awareness of the dangers of knife possession carried out a day of action at Brighton railway station.

The high-visibility activity on Thursday (12 August) was part of Operation Safety – the force’s response to tackling knife crime and serious violence.

Officers, working with the British Transport Police (BTP), set up knife arches inside the station to detect and prevent harmful items from entering the city.

Sussex Police's specially designed van was stationed outside to engage with members of the public to raise awareness and educate around the risks of knife crime by using real-life stories of how young lives have been impacted by knife possession.

During the day, around 1,500 people passed through the knife arches. Nine people were searched, with one woman given a community resolution for possession of Class B drugs.

Officers engaged with 200 – 300 people at the arches, explaining the reasons for them and how they work. More than 100 people were also spoken with at the engagement van, including young children and older people concerned about knife crime.

Officers provided reassurance on the work being done to tackle serious violence in the county, and signposted to other agencies that can offer information and support around knife crime concerns. 

Chief Inspector Simon Yates said: "Sussex is a safe place to live, with knife incidents falling below the national average. However, knife crime can have devastating consequences and we are determined to take proactive action to prevent further lives being affected.

"Carrying a knife can change your life. Although some people may choose to carry one to feel safer, they are actually at far more risk of harm and face serious consequences if caught.

"As well as targeting offenders and disrupting criminal activity, our focus is raising awareness of the dangers of knife possession to prevent lives being impacted by knife crime.

"We all have a part to play in tackling knife crime and we encourage anyone with information or concerns to report it to us so we can take action."

As well as days of action, Sussex Police carries out proactive patrols, carries out educational outreach in schools and among local communities, works with Border Force to prevent knives from being imported, ensures local businesses are aware of Challenge 25 policies, and works to target prolific offenders. 

What should I do if I’m worried about knife crime?

If you are under 18, you feel threatened, unsafe or scared about becoming a victim of knife crime you should try to talk with your parent or carer, or alternatively talk to Childline for help on 0800 1111 or go online.

If you are a parent or carer and you are concerned someone you care for is in danger of becoming a victim of knife crime, try to talk with them in the first instance or seek advice from Family Lives on 0808 800 22 22.

Whether you are a parent or young person you can contact Sussex Police on 101 to speak with your local neighbourhood policing team.

Who do I report knife crime to?

You can report knife crime online or by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.

To report knife crime anonymously go to https://www.fearless.org/en/give-info