Wiltshire Police have launched the latest phase of Sceptre, the twice-yearly national campaign aimed at reducing knife-related crime, with a renewed focus on the role retailers play in preventing dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands.
Starting today (17 November), officers across the county will take part in a series of operations designed to reinforce responsible retailing, including targeted test purchases involving police cadets.
Chief Inspector Steve Jolly, who is leading this winter’s campaign, said the approach to tackling knife crime must be broad and consistent:
“We use a multifaceted approach to tackling knife crime and this includes stopping the sale and supply of knives solely intended to harm, understanding the reasons people carry knives and engaging with these individuals, finding and seizing knives and ultimately ensuring our communities feel safe.”
While Wiltshire Police work to reduce knife crime year-round, this week they will increase their focus on retailers. Cadets under the age of 18 will attempt to buy knives or bladed items in shops. If they succeed, or if staff fail to challenge a buyer they believe to be under 25 for proof of age, the business will fail the test.
Beyond the retail checks, police will conduct weapon sweeps using metal detectors and deploy the knife arch at various locations. These activities will be supported by educational sessions for young people to highlight the real risks associated with carrying a knife.
Figures released by Wiltshire Police show that crimes involving knives or blades have fallen by just under 9 per cent compared with the previous year — from 808 incidents (April 2023–2024) to 738 incidents (April 2024–2025).
Chief Insp Jolly welcomed the drop but stressed that the issue remains serious:
“Whilst this fall in the number of incidents is positive news, we must not be complacent. We know the devastating impact knife crime can have on families and communities.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson echoed that message, saying that early intervention and targeted funding remain key.
“It’s vital that collectively, we target our funding towards those most at risk of being influenced by peers or others to carry a knife… Although we are making progress, it’s important that we continue to build upon the strong foundations we are laying and support our communities to make Wiltshire safer.”
Members of the public wanting advice on knife crime, support services, or ways to help protect young people can find guidance on the Wiltshire Police website.
