Benedict Moore -- 29th September 2005 -- The scanning machines will be set up outside pubs and clubs to tackle knife crime issues, and so far have been used at The Town House Public House, The Green Public House and The Barracuda Night Club.
Knife Surrender Bins have been placed at two police stations in Ealing and Southall, and will offer residents a secure environment to anonymously dispose of their unwanted or illegal knives. The two portable metal detectors, cost £500 each.
Community and Partnership Superintendent Joe Wadsworth, of Ealing Borough police, said: "A culture of knife crime damages not only the lives of its victims but also local communities. Offenders need to know that they will be arrested and young people need to know that it is not glamorous, but extremely hazardous, to carry a knife."
Mr. Neil Symonds, Landlord of the Town House Public House, said: "The introduction of this technology will go some way to creating a crime-free night time economy in our town centres."
As part of the operation, school liaison officers will also be delivering a crime prevention education programme in senior schools beginning in November, outlining the dangers of carrying knives.
