Swindon Police weapons sweep

Volunteers and Swindon Police officers joined forces for a ‘Safety Sweep’ for weapons across Swindon.

The operation was part of an ongoing drive to tackle knife crime and drug dealing.

Community-based volunteers and officers from Swindon Central South Policing Team conducted a thorough sweep across Broadgreen, Manchester Road, County Road and Foundation Park with metal detectors, scouring alleyways and parks for drug paraphernalia, knives and other weapons which may have been discarded in the local area.

A large serrated knife was discovered in undergrowth and is now awaiting destruction.

Colin Conway from Citizens in Policing said: “We’re immensely grateful for our volunteers who bring their enthusiasm and energy to help keep communities safe.  

“Our volunteers show their firm dedication to the police when supporting these initiatives and their interests serve as a driving force in our collective efforts to tackle knife crime.” 

Chief Supt Phil Staynings, Head of Local Policing and the Neighbourhood Harm Reduction Unit at Wiltshire Police, said: “One knife taken off the streets today could mean a life has been saved, also alongside this we will continue to educate on the dangers of carrying weapons and help people make positive choices to keep safe.” 

The force is looking for people from local communities to work with it to help prevent crime and improve safety, and details can be found at www.wiltshire.police.uk.