Greater Manchester Police support national knife crime initiative

Police and partners are supporting Sceptre this week, a national initiative to tackle knife crime.

Knife crime has reduced by 16.3 per cent in the year up to March 2026, with work ongoing to disrupt and prevent offences. 

In 2022, a specialist team known as Operation Venture, was launched to tackle knife crime.  

The impact of this team has been felt across the region, with officers making numerous arrests, seizing weapons, cash and drugs, and working with communities to tackle concerns in their areas. 

During the Sceptre week of action, police will work closely with partners to build upon the work already being done to drive down knife crime. Activity, including weapon sweeps, knife arch deployments and visits to knife retailers, are set to take place across Greater Manchester. 

Detective Superintendent Richard Thompson said: “Knife crime causes significant misery within communities, and we understand and share the concerns of residents who are fearful of the harm knives cause. 

“We have made significant progress in tackling knife crime, but we appreciate there is more to be done. While crimes involving knives have reduced, one life lost to knife crime is one too many, and I’d like to reassure communities that we will not stop in our fight against this dreadful crime.” 

Deputy Mayor of Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green said: “"It’s encouraging to see knife crime continuing to fall across Greater Manchester, but we know the devastating impact these offences still have on victims, families and communities." 

"We are continuing to work closely with Greater Manchester Police, youth services, schools and community organisations to prevent young people from being drawn into violence. 

"Sceptre is an important opportunity to engage directly with communities and raise awareness, while supporting the ongoing work taking place every day across Greater Manchester to tackle the root causes of knife crime through strong enforcement, early intervention and support." 

As part of Sceptre, we held a Q&A yesterday (Monday 18 May). Police were joined by partners, including Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Oasis Navigators, CPS and StreetDoctors, for an online Q&A about knife crime. 

Members of the public can still access the questions posted using the following link: Knife Crime Q&A - Monday 18 May. 

To report someone who is carrying or hiding a knife, call 101 or report via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk. Always dial 999 in an emergency. 

Reports and concerns about knife crime can also be made anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.fearless.org.