As Nottingham prepares for a busy summer season, Nottinghamshire Police have announced a major crackdown on knife crime in the city centre – unveiling a new, multi-agency approach designed to keep residents, workers and visitors safe.
The move comes after a series of knife-related incidents in the city during March, prompting both increased public concern and a robust police response. With footfall expected to rise as warmer weather and events draw more people into the city centre, officers are determined to build on recent efforts to tackle violent crime head-on.
Multi-Agency Strategy Targeting Key Risk Factors
The comprehensive summer plan, developed in partnership with local authorities and community organisations, will specifically target a small number of known knife carriers while also focusing on the underlying causes of violence. This includes analysing links between knife crime, drug supply, rough sleeping, and begging – all of which are being closely monitored by the force’s crime analysts and intelligence units.
Chief Inspector Karl Thomas, Nottinghamshire Police’s knife crime lead, said:
“Our message to knife carriers who bring weapons into the city remains clear. You will be arrested and we will do everything in our power to put you before the courts or ban you from the city centre.”
He added that the ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone in Nottingham feels safe, whether they live, work, or are simply enjoying a day out.
Boosting Visibility and Using Intelligence-Led Policing
Key features of the new plans include:
- High-visibility and plain clothes patrols in areas identified as high-risk.
- Regular deployment of knife arches at locations like Old Market Square and Clumber Street, both to deter and detect weapon possession.
- Use of stop-and-search powers to seize weapons and drugs.
- Marked police vehicles stationed in prominent areas to reduce fear of crime.
- Enhanced coordination with CCTV operators to monitor activity across the city.
Since March, the city centre knife crime team alone has recorded:
- 37 arrests
- 133 stop searches
- 46 drug seizures
- 28 weapons removed from the streets
These numbers demonstrate the force’s ongoing commitment to keeping Nottingham safe and addressing criminality with swift, effective action.
Supporting Vulnerable Groups
Crucially, the plan doesn’t stop at enforcement. Officers will also be working with local charities and health services to support homeless individuals and people battling substance misuse, groups statistically more likely to carry knives for perceived protection.
Chief Inspector Thomas noted:
“We also hope to introduce regular walk-arounds with other support agencies. By working together, we can both offer support and make the city safer for everyone.”
Backed by the City Council
Cllr Corall Jenkins, Nottingham City Council’s Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, Waste and Equalities, praised the joined-up approach:
“Feeling safe in your city is fundamental. These plans will strengthen the work already happening through our Love Your City Centre campaign. By combining enforcement with community engagement and support, we’re addressing the immediate concerns while laying the foundations for long-term, lasting change.”
Part of National Operation Sceptre
The measures are also part of Operation Sceptre, a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing knife crime, which runs until Sunday, 25 May. Throughout this period, Nottinghamshire Police are highlighting both enforcement efforts and community engagement activities.
Staying Safe and Getting Involved
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour. Those wanting to get involved can learn more about the #NottsAgainstKnives campaign and the wider Operation Sceptre by visiting Operation Sceptre: Nottinghamshire Police.