With a rise in public concern following a number of crimes involving knives in the area, North Wales Police have assured residents it is an issue the force is taking "extremely seriously".

Commenting on recent national and local media coverage of crimes involving knives across the UK, North Wales Police assistant chief constable Neill Anderson said: “We understand the public’s concern following the increased media focus on incidents in which people have been killed or injured as a result of knife crime, often, but not always associated with County Lines activity.

"It is important to remember that if you, your partner, son or daughter carries a knife, they are at risk - at risk of going to prison, at risk of being killed or seriously injured and at risk of having to live with the aftermath of someone's death.

“By ensuring proportionate use of Stop and Search, we are actively seeking to reduce offences involving weapons.

“Our recent Operation Sceptre campaign, which encouraged the public to surrender knives, was very successful, with over 800 knives handed in.

“In addition officers across the region have been working with partner agencies to discuss the harm that knife crime can cause and the penalties for being caught in possession of a weapon.

“I wish to reassure our communities that North Wales Police continue to focus on ensuring North Wales remains one of the safest places in the country.”