Knife-point robberies in areas significantly impacted have decreased by 15% compared to the same period last year, as per recent data. The Home Office has reported the closure of over 3,000 county lines networks, resulting in an estimated 2,500 fewer individuals facing the threat of being robbed with a knife.
Moreover, law enforcement efforts have led to more than 8,000 arrests related to drug trafficking activities, often linked to the exploitation of minors. The data indicates that over 4,000 young and vulnerable individuals have received assistance to steer them away from gang involvement.
Policing Minister Sarah Jones affirmed that the government is delivering on Labour’s commitment to combat knife crime effectively. She emphasized that the progress is a result of deliberate strategies implemented to address the issue.
Under the County Lines Programme by the Government, 3,042 county lines have been dismantled, with 8,226 arrests made since July 2024. The Home Office highlighted the seizure of 923 knives and the initiation of 4,323 safeguarding referrals.
Upon assuming power, the Labour party aimed to halve knife crime over a ten-year period. Pooja Kanda, whose son was tragically killed by teenagers wielding a sword, expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts in reducing such crimes.
Kate Wareham, the strategic director of anti-knife crime organization Catch22, commended the Home Office for its progress in addressing county lines issues and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
In October 2024, the Government launched the Knife-Enabled Robbery (KER) Taskforce, focusing on seven high-impact regions, including London, Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, West Yorkshire, and British Transport Police. These areas saw a 15% decline in knife-enabled robberies, dropping from 16,067 to 13,633 incidents.