Police seize guns to tackle youth crime
Alison Bennett
Thursday, November 29, 2007
More than 1,300 guns have been taken off the streets following a one-day initiative to tackle gun crime in cities across England.
The day of action took place yesterday and also resulted in 118 people being arrested across Manchester, London, Liverpool and Birmingham.
The day was a key part of the Tackling Gangs Action Programme, which Jacqui Smith, home secretary launched in September as the focus of renewed action to tackle gun crime and serious violence amongst young people.
More than 1,000 police officers were on hand to target the supply of guns, increase visible policing and reassure communities in those areas most affected by gun crime.
Smith said: "Getting guns off our streets is a top priority for the government and the day of action sends a strong message to criminals and the community that weapons won't be tolerated.
"The Tackling Gangs Action Programme has made good progress in working with police, their partners and local authorities to support increased enforcement and community reassurance in these areas."
The day was a key part of the Tackling Gangs Action Programme, which Jacqui Smith, home secretary launched in September as the focus of renewed action to tackle gun crime and serious violence amongst young people.
More than 1,000 police officers were on hand to target the supply of guns, increase visible policing and reassure communities in those areas most affected by gun crime.
Smith said: "Getting guns off our streets is a top priority for the government and the day of action sends a strong message to criminals and the community that weapons won't be tolerated.
"The Tackling Gangs Action Programme has made good progress in working with police, their partners and local authorities to support increased enforcement and community reassurance in these areas."
