Two in three retailers across Chorley and South Ribble in Lancashire refused the sale of knifes to underage test purchasers, but the police has issued warnings after the rest of the shops sold the items without challenge.
Chorley and South Ribble Police and cadets from across the area conducted an under-age sales operation last week as part of Operation Sceptre, a national intensive week of action to tackle knife-crime.
The exercise aimed to ensure that local businesses were complying with legislation and that those under the age of 18 are unable to purchase knives. Of the 15 retail premises visited, 10 challenged the underage cadets for identification before refusing to sell the items.
Five businesses that sold the items without challenge are being dealt with, Lancashire Police said.
“Selling knives to children is not only against the law but can also put these children at risk,” PS Paul Harrison from Chorley and South Ribble Neighbourhood Policing Team, said.
“We will take robust action against those who disregard their responsibilities when it comes to refusing sales to under-18s. We can never become complacent. If you have any information on young people purchasing knives in local shops, please do contact us so that we can take appropriate action.”
As part of the work to support #OpSceptre, officers have also carried out weapons sweeps and educational school visits to raise awareness of the consequences of carrying a knife.
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