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A knife amnesty bin has been set up at Blackwood Police Station in an attempt to deter knife crime.

Throughout this week, Gwent Police is running a knife amnesty campaign – encouraging people in possession of dangerous weapons to get rid of them anonymously – and without the risk of prosecution.

The campaign is part of Operation Sceptre – a nationwide event aimed at raising awareness of and tackling knife crime.

The bins will be open each day this week between 9am and 1pm, and again between 2pm and 4pm.

Bins will also be open at police stations in Newport, Monmouth, Ebbw Vale and Cwmbran.

Last year, the operation saw 22 knives handed in across Gwent – 18 of which were handed in at Blackwood Police Station.

Knives must be wrapped up before being handed in so they can be removed safely.

The week will also see officers talk to school pupils across the borough about knife crime.

Inspector Richard Tovey, of Gwent Police, said: “Every knife taken off the streets is another life potentially saved and we’re committed to tackling all forms of knife crime and serious violence.

“Although we focus on knife crime during Operation Sceptre, tackling knife crime is part of everyday policing.

“Our officers regularly carry out intelligence-led patrols to deter offending and highlight those who may commit a violent crime.

“There are no excuses as to why someone should carry a knife.”

He continued: “Anyone found to be carrying a knife, no matter the reason, will be stopped, searched, and the weapon will be seized and removed from our communities.”

Anyone with concerns or information on knife crime can contact Gwent Police on 101, or through direct message on Facebook or Twitter.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.