Swindon has recently witnessed an escalation in knife-related incidents, prompting an intensive month-long operation by police to combat the rise in violence.
The enhanced police activity, which involved targeted patrols, bail order checks, and closure order checks, has yielded significant results in tackling crime in the area.
Over the course of four weeks, the efforts of dedicated officers from various police teams within the Force have resulted in 30 arrests related to drugs, weapons, and violence offenses. Additionally, 144 bails were thoroughly examined, and 215 closure orders were checked, ensuring that those causing the most harm were being actively monitored.
A total of 322 focused patrols were conducted throughout the period, increasing police visibility and providing reassurance to the community. The police also carried out 80 stop searches to identify and deter individuals who might be carrying dangerous weapons.
Superintendent Phil Staynings acknowledged the community’s concerns and emphasised the importance of proactive policing in addressing the prevailing issues stating, “The month of May has seen an increased policing presence in Swindon in response to the concerning incidents we have seen recently in the town, where knives and other bladed weapons have been seen or used to inflict harm on others.
“This has resulted in people suffering injuries and ultimately we know that this type of activity can lead to tragic consequences for individuals, families and communities.
“These incidents have understandably caused a huge amount of community concern, and as a result staff have been relentless in conducting a range of proactive activities in hotspot areas to address the issues whilst minimising the risk to the public and protecting the most vulnerable.
“It has been a hugely positive month, which has allowed us to build an informed picture of the situation in Swindon and robustly enforce all bail and closure orders with those that cause the greatest harm.
“Thirty people have been arrested for a mix of drugs, weapons and violence offences, whilst others involved in this type of criminal behaviour have been stopped and searched to ensure they weren’t carrying weapons.”
The success of the operation has paved the way for further actions to combat knife crime and youth and gang-related violence in Swindon. Supt Staynings affirmed that Safer Public Spaces and Tackling Violence remain key priorities for the police, and the proactive approach will continue in the coming months.
Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson expressed his appreciation for the positive outcomes of the intensified month of policing saying: “Knife crime and gang-related violence is becoming more prevalent in some of our communities and we must do all we can to tackle this issue and work closely with partner agencies to look at the whole issue from early intervention and increased awareness and education, as well as robust enforcement and proactive policing.
“What is clear is that where those pockets of crime exist, residents are rightly worried and together we must do all we can to protect communities, as well as prevent associated crimes from destroying even more families and senselessly ending lives.
“The dedicated, proactive, policing intensification in Swindon has been successful, my thanks to all involved in directly contributing to fulfilling the priorities set for Wiltshire Police and contributing to Making Wiltshire Safer for all.”
While law enforcement agencies play a crucial role, Supt Staynings emphasised that community involvement is essential in the fight against crime. He urged residents to share any information they may have and assured them that Wiltshire Police, along with their partners, are working diligently to create a collaborative and comprehensive strategy.
“I would urge anyone with any information to please contact us on 999 in an emergency, 101 in a non-emergency or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously,” he said.
“Alternatively, information regarding your local policing team can be found on the Wiltshire Police website with details of how to make contact.”
