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Posted on Friday 12 May 2023
knife bin

Knife bins are once again being fitted inside stations across the county as part of a week-long campaign.

People looking to surrender unwanted weapons will be able to do so at the bin installations from Monday (May 15).

The bins will be located inside the front counters of stations across County Durham and Darlington, into which people can deposit weapons such as ornamental knives and bladed articles.

The campaign ‘Operation Sceptre’, which is being ran nationally, aims to reduce knife crime and tackle weapon-based violence in the UK.

Durham Constabulary’s Operation Sceptre lead, Inspector Michael Sammut said: “The impact knife crime can have on individuals, families and communities can be truly devastating and long lasting.

"We know that some people who possess these weapons no longer wish to but are scared to hand them in for fear or prosecution, so this is a way we can help them dispose of the items safely.

"Although County Durham and Darlington have one of the lowest rates of knife crime in the country, we remain determined and committed to reducing knife crime in our region and we welcome campaigns and initiatives such as this.”

The bins will be installed in the front counters of:

Bishop Auckland, Durham City, Peterlee and Darlington

Those who cannot attend a station but still wish to surrender an item are encouraged to make alternative arrangements by contacting police on 101.

Although the amnesty is strictly anonymous, it is not a means to dispose of weapons used in crime, and any knife suspected of having been used unlawfully will be investigated.

If you are aware of anyone who carries a knife or have concerns that someone you know may carry a knife, please report it to police or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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