A total of 140 handheld metal detectors have been distributed to teams in Response and Resolution, Targeted Patrols and the Matrix Road Policing Unit.

Merseyside Police is introducing metal detecting wands to "support stop and search powers and act as a deterrent to anyone who might carry a knife".

Funded by the force through its dedicated operation to tackle serious and violent crime, Operation Target, these wands will not replace the requirement for a physical search but will be used as a screening device available to officers already conducting a lawful and justified search.

This "significant investment" has seen 140 handheld metal detectors distributed to teams in Response and Resolution, Targeted Patrols and the Matrix Road Policing Unit.

Chief Inspector Colin Dyer from Response and Resolution said: "The wands will support stop and search powers and act as a deterrent to anyone who might carry a knife. We are committed to keeping communities safe and using all the tools in our arsenal to get weapons off our streets.”

Merseyside has seen a 13% reduction in knife crime and a 9% reduction in serious violence during the financial year to date, while in the last 12 months officers have made 229 arrests for possession of a knife or bladed article offences alongside seizing 1,088 knives.

Superintendent Phil Mullally, Lead for Serious Violence and Knife Crime added: "While both serious violence and knife crime are falling in Merseyside, our work remains ongoing. 

"The use of these wands, alongside Serious Violence Reduction Orders, weapons sweeps, open land searches and the important work of the Violence Reduction Partnership are driving down knife crime and educating people about the dangers of carrying a knife.”