Sceptre: GMP intensifies action on knife crime with weapons seized, multiple arrests and hotspots targeted

Greater Manchester Police have continued its efforts to reduce knife crime with significant results during the latest Sceptre initiative, combining targeted enforcement, proactive disruption and preventative engagement to tackle knife crime and protect communities.

Across the force, 64 arrests were made in relation to knife crime offences including knife-enabled robbery, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of class A and class B drugs.

Innovative deployments also happened across the week including support from the underwater search team who targeted areas across City of Manchester and Trafford, alongside targeted weapon sweeps in which officers recovered 19 weapons.

Proactive work alongside specialist teams including our motorcycle unit also saw a male on an e-bike pursued in Wigan after failing to stop for officers. Teams worked together to bring the e-bike to stop, and a 15-year-old boy was arrested for failing to stop, dangerous driving, no licence and no insurance, and possession of a bladed article.

Alongside enforcement, prevention and early intervention remained a key focus. In Rochdale, officers delivered knife awareness sessions to Year 5 pupils and were able to provide positive engagement and safeguarding support, reflecting the importance of early intervention in reducing future harm and demand.

Engagement activity across Greater Manchester was extensive, with more than 120 school inputs and over 130 community engagements delivered. This visible and educational approach is vital in building trust, raising awareness, and reinforcing the serious consequences of carrying knives.

Violence Reduction Unit Chief Inspector Paul Nolan said: “The collective effort from our teams across the force shows how important reducing knife crime is to each one of our officers and staff. Knife crime can have devastating consequences from not only those directly affected by it but also the communities involved.

“We are determined to keep people safe – from ensuring children have the confidence needed to report concerns to ourselves, to supporting partners through test purchasing operations as we look to limit access to knives and in turn support wider prevention.

“Unfortunately, during one test purchasing operation in North Manchester, 50% of the shops we visited failed therefore we will be taking steps to ensure they are aware of the legislation and will be conducting further visits to ensure they are remaining compliant.

“Knife crime has reduced by 16.3% in the year up to March 2026, with work taking place every single day to disrupt and prevent offences. We are continuing to reduce knife crime and districts are working alongside specialist officers including Operation Venture – a dedicated team launched in 2022 to tackle knife crime.

“The impact of this team has been felt across the region, with officers making more than 1,000 arrests, seizing weapons, cash and drugs, and working with communities to tackle concerns in their areas.”

Operation Venture, our dedicated team for cracking down on violence, particularly focussed on knife crime, have made 1,180 arrests and counting, since their formation back in December 2022.

More information can be found here - https://www.gmp.police.uk/news/greater-manchester/news/news/2026/may/more-than-1000-arrests-made-by-operation-venture-since-2022-as-we-take-more-knives-and-machetes-off-the-streets-this-week/

Kate Green, Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities said: "Knife crime has devastating consequences, which is why we are committed to taking action through enforcement, prevention and education. These results show the impact of targeted enforcement and strong partnership working in tackling knife crime. While it is encouraging to see offences continue to fall, we remain committed to preventing violence, protecting communities, and ensuring those who carry weapons face the consequences of their actions." 

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.