Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary seized 890 knives during a week of action under Operation Sceptre, which included education, enforcement, and community engagement.
The operation led to 19 arrests for knife-related offences, with officers recovering weapons including an axe, knuckle duster, and BB guns.
Inspector Mike Minnock, tactical lead for knife crime at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, said: “This week of action has seen really positive results that are a direct cause of meaningful action – from engagement with young people, to strong collaboration with our partners and a shared commitment to making our streets safer.
Officers carried out weapon sweeps, executed warrants, and conducted Section 18 premises searches.
In Portswood, neighbourhood officers and university security teams searched areas around the Southampton campus, including Lovers Walk, but found no knives.
However, they did discover bolt cutters and a stolen motorbike.
The force’s educational team visited 11 schools, delivering workshops to around 5,000 students.
Police also worked with retailers to prevent illegal knife sales.
Out of 25 test purchase attempts, 28 per cent resulted in failures, with non-compliant retailers offered guidance or, in some cases, facing prosecution.
In Southampton, neighbourhood officers and the Violent Crime Taskforce carried out test purchases at 15 retailers on Shirley High Street.
All but one passed.
A knife arch was temporarily installed outside The Station pub on Eastleigh High Street.
No knives were found.
Inspector Minnock said: “It’s also very positive to have met with so many members of the community, and it’s clear we all have the same determination to tackle knife crime.
“Over the last three years, we are continuing to see a 22.4 per cent reduction in serious offences involving a knife across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, which isn’t the same in other parts of the country.”
Anyone concerned about knife crime can contact police on 101 or speak to their local neighbourhood team.
