Merton police have described a week-long crack down on knife crime as “hugely successful” after seizing five knives.

The anti-knife crime initiative Operation Sceptre took place across London from Monday, February 8 until Sunday, February 14.

As well as weapons sweeps and extra patrols, volunteer teenage police cadets attempted to buy knives from different shops across Merton.

Two shops sold knives to the teenagers, and have now been reported to Trading Standards.

Police Inspector Jon Wilson said: “All of this activity was on top of our business as usual activities.

“This is the third such operation in recent months which again has been hugely successful.

“It’s resulted in knives being recovered and retailers being reminded of the danger of selling knives to young people.”

Arrests made over the week included a 42-year-old man who was found with a knife which had a five inch blade, by the bins outside of Centre Court Shopping Centre in Wimbledon on Sunday, February 7.

February 9: Man charged after being found with five inch knife outside Centre Court Shopping Centre

He was charged with possession of a knife in a public place, and appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, February 10.

Two teenagers, 14-year-old and a 16-year-old, were also arrested in London Road, Morden, on February 8 for carrying knives.

February 10: Two teenage boys arrested with concealed knives in London Road, Morden

Both boys were released on police bail while enquiries continue.

The week was markedly different to when Operation Spectre ran in October last year, when just two knives were collected by Merton Police.

Do you think enough is being done to tackle knife crime in Merton? Comment below and let us know.