Retailers in Newport have passed a police test which saw young people employed to go into shops in an attempt to buy knives.
The so-called test-purchasing forms part of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary's Operation Sceptre.
The initiative aims to take knives off the streets.
With help from Trading Standards, 11 retailers were visited in the Newport area over the course of last week.
Police say all of the outlets passed the test, meaning that no knives were sold to the young volunteers.
Inspector Alison Attwood, from the Isle of Wight High Harm Team, said:
“The fact that no knives were sold to underage people during the test purchasing is a fantastic reflection of the store owners on the island looking to keep the community safe.
“Working with businesses and partners in this fashion plays such a crucial role in preventing knives getting into the wrong hands.
“We know that young people in particular face pressures to carry weapons, or may be subject to exploitation, so early intervention is key.
“Throughout Operation Sceptre we have also been engaging with local schools. Opening up the conversation with young people allows us to further understand the reasons why individuals carry knives and also to educate them around the dangers of carrying one.”
Amanda Gregory, Isle of Wight Council’s Strategic Manager for Regulatory and Community Safety Services, said:
“The result of our test purchasing operation is really positive. It shows that local retailers are aware of their responsibilities and are mindful of the risks that unlawfully selling knives to young people could present.
“It’s important that as a community we continue to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime, as part of the Community Safety Partnership, alongside our police, education, parents/carers and other partners, to keep our young people safe.”
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 555 111.
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