BTP runs operations to deter and detect those carrying weapons on the railways. Operation Shield is deployed across Britain and involves BTP officers using airport-style metal detecting arches and wands to search passengers.

These operations are very successful and weapons such as knives, CS canisters, bats and hammers have been confiscated. Not only that, if you are found carrying a knife you can go to prison for four years even if you don’t use it. And if you’re with a mate who uses a knife you can still be arrested and sent to prison.

For more information on knife crime and its consequences, West Yorkshire Police has resources on TeachingZone which you can download here.