00:01:31
ITN
Crackdown on knife sales under way
Crackdown on knife sales under way
Shops selling knives to teenagers are facing a fresh crackdown in a bid to save young lives. Police and local authorities are being urged by the Government to take action against those who flout the age limits. It is hoped the crackdown will make it tougher for gangs to arm themselves. Meanwhile, figures from Scotland Yard show the number of people charged with possessing a knife in London has fallen by half in the past four years. A total of 22 teenagers have died violently in the capital so far this year with the figure likely to exceed last year's 27 deaths. The new figures show that in 2004, 2,810 people were charged with possession of a knife or bladed weapon. But in the 12 months to April this year the number fell to 1,361. A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "Tackling knife crime is a top priority for the Met with enforcement activity taking place across the capital every day under Operation Blunt 2, which was launched in May. "As a result more people are being arrested and charged for carrying knives. Since the beginning of April this year, 1,187 people (887 adults and 300 youths) have been charged with possession of a knife or sharp instrument." Last month the head of the Met Police said judges and magistrates must do more to reflect the fear of knife crime. Sir Ian Blair said those caught with a blade or involved in knife violence should expect to be jailed. Sir Ian and London mayor Boris Johnson have pledged to do everything they can to stem the tide of knife murders and attacks among young people.
ITN | August 11, 2008
