Dyfed-Powys Police say they're cracking down on knives as part of a national a week of action.

Knife amnesty bins will be placed around the area for people to hand over knives or blades as part of Operation Sceptre, a national campaign that runs from September 18 to 24.

During the week, officers will be using their powers to stop and search individuals who are believed to be carrying knives and shops and businesses are also being asked to put in robust controls on the sale of blades, such as kitchen knives, as part of the operation.

Superintendent for specialist operations Craig Templeton said the aim of the week is to increase awareness about the dangers of carrying knives and the laws around buying and selling knives and blades.

"Carrying a knife is a crime which brings that added risk that a minor issue can escalate into something much more serious and potentially life-changing.

"The damage caused by knives, not just to the victim and their families, but also to the wider community, can be devastating. We will be doing all we can to spread the message that carrying a knife is not ok.

"We are keen to reach out to members of the public who may have information about knife carriers, and I would encourage anyone with information to have the confidence to come forward and report it by calling 101.”

Educational visits to schools, colleges and youth clubs are also planned, to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying knives among young people and their teachers.

The force says it wants to educate people about the laws surrounding buying and carrying knives and will be working with partners such as Trading Standards and Crimestoppers to combat the issue.

Supt Templeton added: "While Dyfed-Powys has not experienced the high volume of knife-related incidents seen in other forces, we will be supporting our police colleagues nationally by taking part in Operation Sceptre.

“We will work with residents, partner agencies, the business community and schools to reduce the number of knives on our streets."

The knife amnesty will run from Tuesday, September 18 to Monday, September 24, with amnesty bins located at police stations in Llandrindod Wells and Newtown.

Police say no questions will be asked at the point of surrender, and no paperwork will be taken.