TWENTY-SIX weapons have been seized as part of a force wide operation to tackle knife crime in Sussex.

Around 80 officers from across the force took part in the "day of action" on Saturday, which targeted violent offenders and wider criminalities.

Across the day, a total of 15 arrests were made for offences including weapon possession, weapon importation, robbery, burglary and drug offences.

A total of 26 weapons were seized and 39 searches were carried out.

In one case, officers found a meat clever stuffed down a man's trousers after he was spotted acting suspiciously in St James's Street, Brighton.

Weapons including lock knives, a knuckle duster and flick knives were also seized from a property in Haywards Heath, after police received information from UK border force.

PS Elizabeth Reschwamm, co-ordinator for Operation Safety said the operation was a great success.

She said: "Dangerous items such as weapons and drugs have no place on our streets and we work tirelessly to remove them and keep local communities safe.

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"Carrying weapons is extremely dangerous and although some people may carry them to feel safer - it actually puts you at more risk of coming to harm.

"Yesterday's operation was a great success. Colleagues from across the Force, including new recruits, worked together to tackle the issues such as weapon possession, violence and wider criminal issues.

"We will continue to tackle and prevent crime through targeted action and by raising awareness."

Elsewhere, police found a "large amount" of white powder in wraps after a car was searched near Broadwater High Street, Worthing.

A 27-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman, both from Worthing - were arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class A drug with intent to supply.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne showed her support for the operation and said: "Sussex Police remain steadfast in their commitment to taking prolific offenders off our streets, preventing knife crime and tackling serious violence.

"This targeted activity has already had some successful, tangible results and the presence in those higher-harm areas is exactly the visible and proactive policing that I know residents want to see.

"A strong message was sent out - the police will respond swiftly and robustly to prevent serious violence and anyone thinking about carrying a knife should beware of the dangers and life-changing consequences of doing so.

"Please remember that all knives can kill and maim and, just by carrying one, you are putting yourself and others in grave danger. My message is clear – lose the knife not a life."

If you have information or concerns about crime in your area, make the right call and report online or by calling 101.