Over 300 arrests and 19 knives seized in week-long crackdown on knife crime across Greater Manchester

Sunday, 1 June 2025 17:13

By David Murphy

Operation Sceptre sees large sword, zombie knife and machete taken off the streets in police and partner effort to tackle violent crime

A total of 322 people were arrested and 19 knives seized during a national week of action to combat knife crime in Greater Manchester. Operation Sceptre, which ran from 19 to 25 May, saw Greater Manchester Police (GMP) join forces with other police services across England and Wales for a coordinated effort to make communities safer.

Throughout the week, GMP officers executed 28 warrants, carried out weapon sweeps, visited schools, and installed knife arches in key locations. They were joined by partner agencies who supported the operation through education, enforcement, and engagement.

Among the 20 weapons recovered were a large sword found by a member of the public in Tameside, and both a zombie knife and machete seized during searches in Middleton.

Commander Stephen Clayman, the national lead for knife crime, visited GMP during the week to observe the operation. He joined North Manchester officers visiting retailers that sell household knives to ensure safe storage and responsible sales policies, and also accompanied a police unit in Harpurhey during a pursuit linked to knife point robberies. Enquiries into that incident are ongoing.

Detective Inspector Roger Edwards said: “The results from Sceptre highlight the relentless work that officers, staff and partners are doing to tackle knife crime and prevent violence.

“Carrying a knife doesn’t make you safer, it increases risk and can end in tragedy. Whether you’re carrying a weapon or know someone who is, we urge you to seek help or report it.”

Efforts will continue across the region, with ongoing police activity targeting knife crime hotspots through stop and search operations, weapon sweeps, and both uniformed and undercover patrols.

Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green, praised the operation: “It was great to see first-hand just how determined GMP are to take knives off our streets. Working with our Violence Reduction Unit, we are focused on making neighbourhoods safer through strong partnerships and listening to residents.”