Police will stop and search people for knives during special operation to tackle robbery on the streets of Milton Keynes

And officers will be using their stop and search powers to check anyone they suspect of carrying a knife, they have warned.

The two month operation started today (Wednesday) and the public has been told to expect to see more police officers in streets, redways and parks.

They will be conducting high visibility patrols across a number of locations in Milton Keynes at various times of day, evening and night, with intelligence leading their patrols.

Detective Sergeant Paddy Navin, based at Milton Keynes police station and lead for the operation, said: “The next two months will see us focus our efforts on identifying those who are looking to commit robbery in Milton Keynes as well as providing reassurance to our local residents that the city remains a peaceful and safe place to live and work.

“Typically we see an increase in robberies over the summer months as more people are out and about. Officers will be dedicated to patrol hotspots identified through intelligence to prevent incidents from taking place and these locations will change as the operation progresses."

The detective sergeant added: “You can expect to see more officers out engaging with members of the public across Milton Keynes and using their stop and search powers where necessary. Please remember that officers only need to suspect that you are carrying a weapon or banned item to legally conduct a stop and search. Being searched does not mean that you are in any trouble so please don’t be anxious if this happens to you.

“Intelligence will be vital in helping us focus our efforts in the right places so if you see or hear something suspicious or have information that could help with our operation, please contact us online or call 101. If a crime is taking place or has just happened then always call 999.

“If you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or on their website.”

For advice on staying safe from robbery, take a look at the crime prevention advice page on the TVP website here .