The fight against knife crime in Bolton will intensify this week as police officers launched Operation Spectre today.

The nationwide operation is designed to crack down on violent crime, with a particular focus on knife violence.

Today, uniformed and non-uniformed officers were out on the streets as part of the operation, which also includes an amnesty bin for anyone wishing to anonymously drop off knives.

The bin will be at Bolton interchange tomorrow from 10am to 2pm.

(Image: Leah Collins) The amnesty bin means that knives and other bladed weapons can be disposed of safely without the fear of prosecution. And people are being warned that those who have a knife on them which is not wrapped and secure may be arrested.

PC Matt Hodgson said: “Serious violent crime offences went down 12 per cent across Greater Manchester, we try to build good rapport with people and talk to them before using force.

“We talk and collect intel from local businesses and try to help those who are vulnerable and at risk of criminality. We have SVC hotspots around Bolton and make sure to patrol these regularly as a team. There will be officers in this area acting as a high visibility presence in order to deter crime.”
The Operation Venture team – GMP’s dedicated serious violence and knife crime team – is supporting the operation with uniformed and plain clothes patrols in districts across Greater Manchester.

The Operation Sceptre week of action also highlight the selling of knives (including in the online space) and officers will be working with partners to engage retailers and highlight the ways in which they can be more vigilant to ensure knives are sold responsibly.

 

(Image: Leah Collins).

(Image: Leah Collins)

The day saw the apprehension of a locally known wanted suspect, who was taken into custody on suspicion of criminal damage after a car was intercepted by officers.

Police are also getting out the message about the dangers of carrying knives, about putting yourself at risk as well as others.