Operation Sceptre sees Lancashire Police ramp up action across Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre and Lancaster
In a significant blow to knife crime in the region, Lancashire Police’s West Division has successfully removed over 400 weapons from local streets during a recent week-long operation targeting knife-related violence and crime.
Between Monday 19 May and Sunday 25 May 2025, officers participated in Operation Sceptre – a nationwide initiative aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of knife crime and providing the public with opportunities to surrender weapons without fear of prosecution.
The West Division – which covers Blackpool, Fylde, Wyre and Lancaster – undertook a variety of proactive and preventative activities, in collaboration with Lancashire’s Violence Reduction Network and key local partners, focused on early intervention, education and enforcement.
Over 400 Weapons Taken Off the Streets
As part of the campaign, seven secure knife surrender bins located across the division were emptied, revealing a total of 406 weapons surrendered voluntarily by members of the public.
“It has been great to see so many partners, businesses and communities engage with Sceptre,” said Sergeant Daniel Whitaker, from Lancashire’s Violence Reduction Network.
“Although the week of awareness is over, we will not stop our efforts to reduce knife crime and increase awareness of its dangers.”
Enforcement, Education and Community Engagement
Other key results from the operation include:
- 36 retail premises were subjected to test purchasing operations in partnership with Trading Standards. Of these, three retailers failed, selling a bladed article to underage volunteers. These retailers have received written warnings and further guidance, and will be retested in the future.
- 149 stop and searches were conducted across the division.
- Schools across Blackpool, Lancaster and surrounding areas received targeted knife crime awareness sessions, highlighting the dangers of carrying weapons.
- Plain clothes and high-visibility patrols were carried out in town centres to deter and detect criminal behaviour.
Knife Bins Available Year-Round
While the week-long awareness campaign has ended, Lancashire Police are urging residents to continue making use of the surrender bins, which are available all year round. These bins offer a safe and anonymous way to dispose of weapons, reducing the risk of harm in the community.
Knife bin locations in Lancashire’s West Division:
- Marton & Mereside Youth & Community Centre, Bowness Avenue, Blackpool FY4 4TE
- Revoe Library, Grasmere Road, Blackpool FY1 5HP
- 84 Egerton Road, Blackpool FY1 2NN
- Library @thegrange, 2a Bathurst Avenue, Blackpool FY3 7RW
- Inspire North Lancashire – Fleetwood, Lofthouse Building, London Street, Fleetwood FY7 6JL
- Carlisle Bridge, Lancaster LA1 1SA
- Morecambe Bus Station, Central Drive, Morecambe LA4 4DW
Report Knife Crime Anonymously
If you have any concerns or information regarding knife crime in your area, contact Lancashire Police via 101, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.