Police and partner agencies across Greater Manchester are supporting Sceptre this week, a national initiative aimed at tackling knife crime and reducing violence in communities.

New figures show knife crime across the region has reduced by 16.3 per cent in the year up to March 2026, with officers continuing daily work to prevent offences, disrupt criminal activity and engage with young people.

A major part of that work has been led by Operation Venture, a specialist unit launched in 2022 to target knife crime across Greater Manchester. Since its introduction, officers have carried out numerous arrests and seized weapons, cash and drugs while working closely with communities to address local concerns.

Throughout the Sceptre week of action, police will join forces with partners to build on existing efforts to reduce knife crime further. Activity taking place across Greater Manchester includes weapon sweeps, knife arch deployments and visits to retailers selling knives.

Detective Superintendent Richard Thompson said: “Knife crime causes significant misery within communities, and we understand and share the concern of residents who are fearful of the harm knives cause.

“We have made significant progress in tackling knife crime, but we appreciate there is more to be done. While crimes involving knives have reduced, one life lost to knife crime is one too many, and I’d like to reassure communities that we will not stop in our fight against this dreadful crime.”

Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities Kate Green added: “It’s encouraging to see knife crime continuing to fall across Greater Manchester, but we know the devastating impact these offences still have on victims, families and communities.

“We are continuing to work closely with Greater Manchester Police, youth services, schools and community organisations to prevent young people from being drawn into violence.

“Sceptre is an important opportunity to engage directly with communities and raise awareness, while supporting the ongoing work taking place every day across Greater Manchester to tackle the root causes of knife crime through strong enforcement, early intervention and support.”

As part of the campaign, police hosted an online knife crime Q&A on Monday 18 May alongside partners including the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Oasis Navigators, CPS and StreetDoctors.

Anyone with concerns about knife crime or information about someone carrying or hiding a knife is urged to contact police via 101 or LiveChat through the Greater Manchester Police website. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Information can also be passed anonymously through Crimestoppers or Fearless.