Retail scheme to prevent knife crime launched in Caerphilly

A pilot scheme to encourage retailers to sell knives responsibly has been launched in Caerphilly.

Gwent Police, in conjunction with Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Trading Standards team, have been visiting shops in the borough this week to sign them up to the responsible seller scheme which encourages retailers to sell knives safely and prevent the underage sale of knives.

All stores which sell knives in Caerphilly town have signed up and officers continue to work with traders across the rest of the county borough to raise awareness.

It is illegal to sell knives to anyone under the age of 18 and, as part of the scheme, retailers agree to adopt a ‘challenge 25’ policy and request to see ID to ensure proof of age.

As part of the initiative, officers have spoken to retailers about banned ‘zombie knives’ and the offence of marketing a knife in a way that suggests it is suitable for combat.

This is part of the force’s activity during #Op Sceptre – a national week of action to tackle knife crime and raise awareness of the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife.

Sergeant Richard Tovey said:

“The scheme is about working with local retailers to ensure robust checks are in place to prevent the sale of knives to those who seek to do harm.

“Knife crime can have devastating consequences and we will act wherever necessary to reduce violence and keep our communities safe.”