As part of the Operation Sceptre, the Force made a series of morning inspections that resulted in the discovery of illegal weapons, including small firearms, and a cannabis farm.
Operation Sceptre is a week-long joint effort between all police departments of Wales and England to raise awareness of knife crime in the UK. During the week commencing 9 November 2020, Northumbria Police dispatched agents throughout Newcastle and Gateshead.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “There’s no question about it - knives ruin lives. This operation has a clear goal of getting dangerous weapons off our streets and it’s done just that, which is great".
"We need to keep building on this and it’s not just about arrests and prosecution but prevention too. Along with our police force, my Violence Reduction Unit is committed to engaging with young people, and where possible, is getting out there working with schools, youth groups, charities.”
In April, The Chronicle reported an 18% drop in knife crimes due to the further founding of the Violent Reduction Unit (VRU).
Assistant Chief Constable, Neil Hutchinson said: “Our stance on knife crime and serious violence is simple – it has absolutely no place in our region."