Why it matters: The sale of knives to under-18s is illegal, with retailers required to verify age using Challenge 25 ID checks. The failures highlight ongoing concerns about young people's access to potential weapons.
The big picture: Police cadets conducted test purchases at 26 shops across Suffolk during Operation Sceptre, which ran from 11 to 17 November. The operation aims to tackle knife crime through intensified police action.
Sergeant Jamie Vincent said: "It is disappointing that three shops failed the purchase checks and sold a weapon to an under 18-year-old."
By the numbers:
26 shops tested
3 shops failed
Over 600 knives surrendered in amnesty bins
6 stop searches conducted
20 weapon sweeps completed with no knives found
5 knife-related arrests made
What they're saying: "All retailers have a responsibility to the safe sale of knives. All staff should ensure they operate a 'Challenge 25 ID' age verification check," Vincent said.
What's next: Community Policing Teams will revisit the failed stores to review their policies and training processes. The retailers have been reported to Trading Standards for further action.
The bottom line: While police emphasise that Suffolk remains a safe county, the failed checks demonstrate ongoing vigilance is needed to prevent knife sales to minors. It was not stated which stores failed checks.
