Police step up estate patrols over knife fears

POLICE are to increase patrols around Eyres Monsell amid fears of an increase in knife crime.

The move comes after two teenagers were treated for stab wounds in Hillsborough Road last month.

Both of the teenagers were subsequently arrested on affray and released pending further enquiries.

A 21-year-old man and an

18- year-old man have been arrested in connection with the incident. They have also been released pending further enquiries.

Sergeant Ben Widdowson said: “Members of the public have expressed concern that knife crime in the areas may be going up.

“We wish to respond robustly to this, that’s why officers will be out and about throughout Eyres Monsell to act as both a deterrent and reassurance.

“Knife crime will not be tolerated and the message to those carrying a knife is that the consequences can be devastating, not only for others, but for themselves.

“The force has worked extremely hard to educate young people in schools and through youth engagement activities, including our #LivesNotKnives campaign that carrying a knife is not a status symbol and there can be very serious penalties.”

Officers will be enforcing their stop and search powers if they believe anyone is acting inappropriately or suspiciously.