Tackling gun and knife crime

We are determined to stamp out knife and gun crime in the capital. We are working with police, boroughs and other criminal justice system agencies to ensure there are assertive targeted interventions combined with intelligence-led policing to reduce the number of incidents.

Although, overall, knife crime has declined in the capital, the trend for young people to carry knives continues and so, in turn, does the danger. To tackle the problem, we are focusing on combining education, engagement and other preventative measures with a tough and energetic stance on deterrence, detection and prosecution.

A Londonwide knife sweep

In May 2008, the Met launched Blunt 2, a huge police operation in London in response to several young people being killed in attacks involving knives. It involves stop-and-search teams in boroughs across the capital. Since then, over 9,000 knives have been seized in London and over 18,300 arrests have been made.

Introducing tougher sentencing

The government demonstrated how seriously it views knife possession when it doubled the maximum sentence for the offence, from two to four years in jail. Although sentencing has been increased, the Mayor is clear that young people shouldn't be carrying knives and he is advocating stronger sentences.

Making young Londoners aware of the risks

We are educating young people on the risks of carrying knives. Carrying a knife brings a great risk that it will be used against you.

The police along with London boroughs are targeting and disrupting those who offend in groups or gangs.

"We are sending out a strong message that if you carry a knife or a gun or commit acts of violence there is no place to hide. You will be caught by the police and locked up behind bars."

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London

If you have any information, get in touch

If you have any information about the carrying, use, storage or supply of weapons, contact your local police or, if you would like to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.