POLICE in two Hampshire towns are marking the success of the latest attempt to tackle knife crime.

Sergeant Darren Willis, of the Fareham and Gosport High Harm Reduction Team, has issued an update on the progress made by officers involved in Operation Sceptre.

He took to social media following what he described as a successful week of action.

Sgt Willis said: "The week has seen many knives seized/surrendered, violent persons removed from the streets and significant public engagement.

"It has been a very positive week and while Operation Sceptre publicly raises the issue of knives, for us it remains and will always remain a focus.

"I am sure not everyone is aware, however, that in an effort to tackle violent crime a ban on a wide range of knives, weapons and firearms came into force from 14 July.

"This means that some articles that were previously legal to own in the home are now illegal. It’s now an offence to keep items such as knuckledusters, flick knives, throwing stars, zombie knives, telescopic truncheons and push daggers in your home.

"If you have any such items, then please contact the police for safe disposal advice."