DOZENS of police officers took to the city’s streets on Saturday night as part of their war on knife crime.

The large scale deployment took in East Oxford, Blackbird Leys and the city centre and was branded a success despite no knives being found.

Six people were arrested for drugs offences and a total of 35 people were stopped and searched.

Det Insp Simon Morton, leading the Operation Blade initiative, said: “Had we actually found some knives then it would have showed that no-one’s listening us.

“It was actually quite good. We turned over a lot of people and we had a really positive response from the public and the people involved.

“Everyone knows our activity was about reducing knife crime and as a result of that no-one came out with knives.

“That’s a resounding success.”

Police officers were joined by community support officers, sniffer dogs, motorcycle officers, mounted police and plain-clothes “spotters” as they combed the streets.

The operation began around Cowley and Iffley roads at about 6.30pm before moving to Blackbird Leys at 8.15pm and on to the city centre after 10pm.

A mobile police station and custody vans were brought to each location.

The initiative was designed to catch those carrying knives but also to educate people about the issue. Leaflets were handed out and city council officers spoke to members of the public.

In Cowley Road, 39-year-old Richard Vanderstelt welcomed the police presence. He said: “It’s a good opportunity to raise awareness with the public.”

Picture: Antony Moore