As part of the ongoing work to tackle the threat of drug trafficking and knife crime in the county, Police Officers from Harlow Neighbourhood Policing Team visited Harlow College to raise awareness as part of The Safer Harlow Partnership scheme. They were joined by the Essex Police and staff from the College.

The Safer Harlow Partnership is a group of organisations working together to reduce crime and disorder in the town. The partnership is led by Harlow Council, Essex Police, Essex County Fire and Rescue, Probation Service, Integrated Care Board and Essex County Council, working together for a safer Harlow. A key part of their mission is educating and engaging with young people about knife crime.

As part of this initiative, a knife arch was installed on campus by Essex Police to raise awareness and encourage open conversations about safety. Students engaged and received practical advice on avoiding involvement in drugs, gangs, and criminal networks. The event highlighted the importance of community partnerships in creating a safer, stronger Harlow.

Harlow Community Policing Team Inspector Leanne Archer said: “Harlow College have always been very supportive in reducing knife crime and preventing harm coming to members of the community. Operations like this are valuable in tackling county lines and identifying those that may have become victims of exploitation.

“In doing such operations we can identify those that carry weapons, drugs and persons who are potentially a risk of harm to others, whilst also providing wider education around the seriousness of the matter. We are very grateful for the cooperation from Harlow College, a partnership approach through working together we can identify those at risk to ensure safeguarding is in place.”

Assistant Principal, Sallyann Abdelmoula, said: “Harlow College is proud to work in partnership with Essex Police as part of Operation Sceptre, a national initiative focused on tackling knife crime and related risks in our communities.

“Today, we joined forces to educate and inform young people about the dangers of knife crime, drug involvement, and county lines exploitation. Our aim is to empower students with knowledge so they can make safe, positive choices and avoid the risks associated with criminality.”

“This collaborative effort reflects our shared commitment to protecting young people and giving them the tools to thrive in a safe environment.”

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 us on 101 or report online at www.essex.police.uk

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity completely anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org
Always call 999 in an emergency.