Police in Swindon are preparing to fight back against rising violence in the town. 

Over the next four weeks, there will be an increased policing presence dedicated to addressing the increasing number of violent incidents where knives and other weapons have been used.

Throughout last year Swindon saw an increase in offences where knives and other weapons have been used. 

In the six months from September 2022 to February 2023 there were 10 serious violent incidents using weapons that resulted in serious injury in Swindon, including the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Owen Dunn in December 2022.

New Office of National Statistics figures from the year ending March 2022 show members of the public reported 433 people having weapons on them in Wiltshire - representing a 27 per cent increase

There were also 308 knife crime offences, which was 14 per cent more than in the previous 12 months.

Many of those involved in these incidents are youths and young adults and many of them are vulnerable and in need of diversion from criminality. 

These incidents have caused and continue to cause significant concern within our Swindon communities.

ACC Deb Smith said: “Within Swindon, throughout the last few months we have seen a concerning escalation of violence where weapons have been used in both public and private spaces, resulting in several serious injuries and the tragic death of an 18 year old man in Haydon End in December. 

"I absolutely recognise the impact that this has on our local communities.

“Extensive police and partnership activity is ongoing to address these issues, yet I recognise that more still needs to be done to tackle these issues.

“Over the next four weeks we will be carrying out enhanced and focused police activity to tackle the issues of violence across Swindon. This will involve my officers carrying out increased visible patrols across the town.

“My officers are fully committed in bringing those that commit violent crimes or carry knifes and other weapons to justice. However, we cannot do this alone. We need information from our communities in order that we can tackle these issues effectively with our partners.

“I would urge anyone with any information to please contact us on 999 in an emergency, 101 in a non-emergency or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.  Alternatively, information regarding your local policing team can be found on the Wiltshire Police website with details of how to make contact.”