POLICE made three arrests in Basildon during a week of special patrols to proactively tackle knife crime.

Essex Police carried out Operation Sceptre patrols across the county last week, seizing ten weapons and resulting in a total of 14 arrests.

Supt Andrew Mariner said: "Knife crime can have devastating consequences and we remain committed to doing everything in our power to put offenders before the courts and take as many knives and weapons off our streets as possible.

"This week of activity was part of our ongoing drive to disrupt criminal gangs and send out a very clear message that we will not tolerate their culture and behaviour.

"However I also want to reassure residents that while it is a concern to us, such offences are not rife here in Essex and our county remains a very safe place.

"We know that some groups will be at greater risk, such as victims of domestic abuse, those who are vulnerable due to substance abuse and criminals who are involved in the supply of drugs and other organised crime.

"That’s why these areas are among our top priorities and we are absolutely committed to working hard to tackle domestic abuse and the issues around drugs and organised crime.

"One life lost is one too many and with the action we are taking with our partners – and vital information from the public - we can drive down knife crime.”

In Basildon, officers from the local policing team seized three weapons during evening patrols.

A 27-year-old man from Basildon was arrested in Upper Mayne at 9.15pm on October 15.

Nathan Mills, of Dengayne, was later charged with possession of an article with a blade and criminal damage and released on bail to appear at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on November 15.

A 16-year-old boy from Basildon was arrested on London Road, Pitsea, at 3.15am on October 16, following reports that a man had been seen with a weapon.

The boy was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and possession of an imitation firearm and has been released on bail pending further investigation until November 21. A knife was also seized.

A 19-year-old man from London was arrested at Luncies Road, Basildon, at 11.40pm on October 15, on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

A knife was seized and the man was released on bail pending further investigation until January 8.

During the rest of the week officers from the Community Policing Team carried out test purchasing operations with Trading Standards to highlight sales of knives to underage customers.

High-visibility patrols were also carried out in Southend and Basildon town centres.