An operation to tackle knife crime in Barry was launched last week.

Operation Populus will see officers targeting those who carry knives in the Barry area.

This activity comes under the banner of Op Sceptre - the national policing response to tackle knife crime.

Knife crime remains rare for the vast majority of our communities but it has risen across South Wales and the rest of the UK.

Officers carried out a number of stop searches in Barry on the evening of July 25th.

A 22-year-old Cardiff man was stopped by officers in Thompson Street thanks to information from a member of the public.

He was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class C drug and has been released under investigation.

This summer-long operation will include the use of our facial recognition technology alongside our uniformed police officers and specially trained covert teams.

The facial recognition technology is part of a range of measures at our disposal to ensure the safety and security of the public.

Local Policing Inspector for Barry, Scott Lloyd, said: "The aim of this operation is to pursue those carrying, and using knives in a public place in Barry, and to pro-actively patrol areas where there are community concerns. Knives have no place in our communities and we urge those thinking of arming themselves to think about the tragic consequences.

"Not only are you more at risk of running into danger while carrying a knife you also run the risk of being arrested and potentially receiving a custodial sentence.

''The awful effects of knife crime are obvious, and for every individual involved in an incident there are family members and friends who will themselves be devastated."

He added: "Families and communities can definitely play their part in helping to tackle knife crime. I would urge parents to talk to your children about the dangers of carrying knives.

"If you have concerns or suspicions, please tell us so we can intervene and help divert them away from knife crime."

If you have any concerns then give us a call on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

If you want to pass on information anonymously online, click the red button below or head to fearless.org.