ESSEX Police set up their knife arch in Harlow town centre this afternoon.

The arch was positioned adjacent to Harlow library.

They were also working together with Harlow College.

A spokesperson for the college said: “As part of the ongoing work to tackle the threat of drug trafficking and knife crime in the county, officers from Harlow’s Community Policing Team visited Harlow College to raise awareness as part of Operation Stronghold. They were joined by the Essex Police and staff from the College.

Operation Stronghold utilises both local and additional force wide police resources to tackle issues affecting the community within all Essex police districts. The operation involves a number of proactive enforcements, high visibility and public engagement events.

“A knife arch was set up at the main student entrance to screen students as they entered the campus. Police officers were stationed at the other entrances and plain clothed police were operating around the borders of the college”.

If you’re concerned about drug-related crime in your area or think someone may be a victim of drug exploitation or knife crime, please call 101 or report online at http://www.essex.police.uk/

Cllr Joel Charles, Harlow Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said:

“Today’s operation aimed at deterring anyone in possession of a knife from coming to the town centre is a good example of proactive policing. External funding secured by the council was used to acquire the knife arch. 

“Crime prevention is a council priority. The knife arch is helping Harlow’s Community Policing Team to make a further positive difference in the community.

“Constantly reinforcing the message that it is not acceptable to carry a knife, or other offensive weapons, can help save more lives.”