A TOTAL of 82 weapons have been surrendered in Chelmsley Wood in the past three months.
Figures released by West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Simon Foster, show which knife bins have had the most blades and weapons deposited in them from January and March this year.
The knife surrender bin in Chelmsley Wood Shopping Centre had the eighth highest deposits in the region.
According to the PCC between January and March there were 1,705 weapons surrendered by the public and later destroyed – that equates to 142 weapon deposits a week or over 20 per day.
The recent haul included hundreds of flick knives, zombie knives, kitchen knives, knuckle dusters, machetes and even firearms.
This comes as the PCC announces he will be doubling the number of weapon surrender bins in the West Midlands.
Mr Foster said there will be 64 sites across the region as he reaffirmed his commitment to combat knife crime.
The metal containers provide a safe location for the public to dispose of knives and weapons, with PCC Simon Foster stating how every knife, blade or weapon deposited in one of the bins is potentially a life saved.
Mr Foster said: “Weapon surrender bins are continuing to have a significant impact, because they play an important part in keeping people, families, businesses and communities safe here in the West Midlands.
“I’ve witnessed the bins being cleared and the range of weapons that have been deposited and then later destroyed is truly staggering. These bins are ensuring there are fewer dangerous weapons out on the streets of the West Midlands.
“Preventing and tackling serious violence and knife crime is an absolute top priority for me as Police and Crime Commissioner, and that’s why, during Knife Crime Awareness Week (May 19-25), I’m pleased to announce this further investment to double the number of weapon surrender bins from 32 to 64.
“As I keep emphasising, every knife, blade or weapon placed in a weapon surrender bin, is potentially a life saved.”
Anyone who wants to apply for a new bin placed in their community should email [email protected].
