Knife detectors to go on streets

Advertisement

The detectors have been trialled at rail stations

Weapon-detecting arches are to be used on the streets by Devon and Cornwall Police for the first time to try to prevent knife crime.

The portable metal-detecting arches, similar to those used in airports, have been trialled at railway stations.

The detectors, which can be set up in about five minutes, will be initially used in Plymouth's nightlife areas, including North Hill and Union Street.

They will be in use at pubs, clubs and on the street by the end of November.

If the initiative is judged a success, it may be extended to other towns and cities.

Devon and Cornwall Police said they hoped the equipment would be an effective deterrent to stop people from carrying knives.

The force added that Devon and Cornwall had relatively low levels of knife crime and the arches were a legitimate tactic to keep it that way.