Large knife ‘that could have proved fatal’ seized from teen in Preston

A 16-year-old has been arrested and charged after a large knife, which police say is capable of causing fatal injures, was found in Preston.

The boy, who was found and searched after running away from a task force team, had been carrying it in his waistband.

The weapon was seized following an operation in Preston City Centre this week.

Preston Task Force assisted the City Centre Neighbourhood Team with another plain clothes operation to target a range of issues on Tuesday (30th January 2024). This included a number of stop searches as well as dealing with a number of shoplifters.

A male tried to evade Task Force Officers in St George’s Shopping Centre and following a short foot chase, he was located on Lune Street and searched. Following a number of enquires the weapon in this picture was also located nearby.

A 16 year old male was arrested and has since been charged for possessing a bladed article in a public place.

He has been bailed to attend Preston Magistrates Court.

A spokesperson said: ‘’There is no place for knife crime in Preston and such behaviour will not be tolerated. Preston Task Force will continue to tackle the issue and serve justice to those responsible for such crimes.

‘’If you believe someone you know carries a knife please tell us by calling 101, or reporting it online at doitonline.lancashire.police.uk. Independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached on 0800 555 111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org. Always call 999 in an emergency.’’