Operation Sceptre has been taking place this week (19th-25th May 2025). Sceptre is a national campaign focusing on reducing knife crime, actively targeting those carrying knives and other bladed weapons.

You may have seen in some shops signage on display informing customers of their policies for age-restricted sales, such as ‘Think 21’ or ‘Think 25’. Knives are included in the list of items covered by such policies. They’re in place to ensure that age verification checks take place, so that knives will only be sold (or supplied) where the retailer is satisfied that the customer is 18 or over. This will include proof of age checks for in-store sales, on collection or at the point of delivery.

As part of Operation Sceptre, Bicester Neighbourhood Policing Team have been carrying out operational activities. Yesterday they successfully undertook a test purchasing operation at stores in Bicester and Kidlington, relating to the sale of knives. One shop failed (age verification was not requested from the person making the purchase) and was given advice on staff training and knife legislation.