A former police detective has claimed that knife crime has become an "epidemic" as he reflected on the bleak reality of today's "catastrophic" incident in Southport.
A major incident has been declared in Southport after "a number of reported casualties," with eight being treated at the scene, and a man has been caught with a knife in Merseyside.
Speaking to GB News, former police detective Peter Bleksley said: "Knife crime in the last decade has increased by 78 per cent.
"That's only the recorded figures. We have an epidemic of knife crime and people using other bladed instruments. Let's look back in just the last year or so.
Peter Bleksley told GB News that Knife crime has become and "epidemic"
GB News
"Two catastrophic incidents, one in Hainault, where a 14-year-old boy lost his life and two police officers were very seriously injured.
"A man is awaiting trial, for that matter, so I won't mention it further.
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"But then, if we go back to the 13th of June last year in Nottingham, Valdo Calocane on his murderous rampage killed Barnaby, Ian and Grace and seriously injured a number of other people.
"These incidents are appalling. They are creeping into our lives with greater frequency and it cannot just be the responsibility of the police alone to try and tackle this epidemic."
Emergency services were called to Hart Street in Southport at around 12pm earlier today.
North West Ambulance Service has confirmed eight patients with stab injuries have been treated at the scene in Southport so far and taken to hospitals including Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
Police at the scene in SouthportX/@ChauffeurWestA Merseyside Police statement said: "We can confirm that emergency services are in Southport following a major incident this morning, Monday July 29.
"At around 11.50am, we were called to a property on Hart Street to reports of a stabbing.
"There are a number of reported casualties and more details will be confirmed when possible.
"Armed police have detained a male and seized a knife. He has been taken to a police station.
Police at the scene in SouthportX/@ChauffeurWest"Please avoid the area while we deal with this incident. There is no wider threat to the public."
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said: "Horrendous and deeply shocking news emerging from Southport.
"My thoughts are with all those affected. I would like to thank the police and emergency services for their swift response. I am being kept updated as the situation develops."
