Campaign to get knives off streets
SOCIAL media and fear are behind increasing rates of young people carrying knives in Greater Manchester, police have warned.
The force launched a week-long crack down on knife crime in Oldham, targeting young people who may be tempted to carry a weapon.
GMP will be carrying out ‘weapon sweeps’ of areas with high levels of knife possession across the region. Officers are also joining forces with community groups and sports clubs to educate young people about the dangers of carrying a blade.
Superintendent Glenn Jones, of GMP, said the increase in knife crime was down to a ‘culture’ of the weapons being glamorised on social media.
He added: “There are a lot of people carrying knives, not to create criminality, but because of the fear and the perception that they have of walking around in the street. Therefore they end up carrying a knife. Statistically, you are more likely to become a victim of that knife yourself if you bring it out to protect yourself.
“Unfortunately in some communities it has become socially acceptable to carry knives or be part of gang culture. We’re against the perception on the internet and social media that this is the thing to do. They are almost glamorising it. We need to make it socially unacceptable.
“Knives are easy for people to get hold of.”
Police are calling for more effective legislation as a deterrent.
Prevention and education is another strand of GMP’s campaign to eradicate knife crime.
GMP will be working with sports clubs and community groups to engage with young people with challenging behaviour.
Oldham Boxing and Personal Development Centre has teamed up officers to help them connect with teenagers.
Director Eric Noi said increasing levels of anxiety among young people can lead to them making bad decisions. He said: “Many people carry knives out of fear and without comprehending the consequences. It’s a vicious circle – their fear is often the reason they carry knives. Sadly, statistics show that those who carry a knife are more likely to become a victim themselves. “Prevention is better than intervention – we need to educate young people to make positive decisions and choose never to carry a knife and for people to report knife crime.”