Police held an operation to tackle knife crime in Redbridge resulting in three arrests and the seizure of a knife.

Operation Sceptre which took place in late October included weapon sweeps, patrols in hot-spot areas and wanted offender arrests in a concerted effort to tackle knife crime in the capital.

In total, 11 weapon sweeps were conducted across the borough resulting in the seizure and disposal of a knife on Monday, (October 26), at Fulwell Cross, Hainault.

Intelligence-led stop and searches took place, along with high-visibility patrols across the borough.

They resulted in two people being charged for possession of an offensive weapon after being stopped in Broadmead estate, Ilford.

A teenager was also bailed after being found in possession of an knife in Woodman Path, Ilford, on Saturday (October 31).

Detective Inspector Mason Mills, Ilford CID said: "Our policing teams work hard to prevent and detect knife crimes wherever possible and we are working towards eliminating knives from our streets for good.

"We want to remind retailers that it is illegal to sell knives to under-age children and test purchasing will continue to form part of our crime prevention strategy.

"I would urge anyone who may know where a knife is hidden or who has information about a knife crime to contact their local Safer Neighbourhoods Team and pass that information to us. It may stop a crime from happening."