GWENT Police officers will increase stop and search powers by stopping and targeting those acting suspiciously on our streets.

A knife Amnesty begins today and will be running throughout Gwent to help prevent weapons on the streets.

The week’s action will run alongside Operation Sceptre, a national campaign that aims to educate people about the dangers associated with using and carrying knives.

Officers will also be encouraging the public to deposit knives anonymously at secure bins throughout Gwent at the following police stations: Newport Central, Maindee, Chepstow, Abergavenny, Monmouth, Ystrad Mynach, Cwmbran, Pontypool, Ebbw Vale and Blackwood.

People have asked people to ensure blades are wrapped before depositing it by using cardboard, bubble wrap or something similar.

As part of the campaign, school liaison officers will be educating youngsters on the repercussions of carrying weapons.

Superintendent Glyn Fernquest said: “We are pleased to give our support to this national initiative once again. Crimes involving knives are rare in Gwent but we are taking positive active to try and prevent offences by removing them before any harm is caused. I hope this amnesty is an opportunity to cleanse our streets of these weapons. If you know a friend or family member who carries a knife or similar, urge them to surrender it as part of the amnesty."

Ring 101 or 0800 555 111 for more information.