A series of stabbings across Merseyside has left four people injured, including teenagers, raising community concerns.
The latest stabbing occurred on February 24th. A 15-year-old boy was stabbed near Crosby Leisure Centre around 6 PM by attackers on electric bikes. He fled, but a car hit him in Waterloo.
The boy sustained stab wounds to his leg, chest, arm, and buttock. Police arrested a 21-year-old man from Seaforth, charging him with intent to wound and drug possession; he was conditionally bailed. Another man, age 44, also from Seaforth, was arrested on suspicion of drug dealing and assisting the offender. He was released while the investigation continues.
Before that, on February 21st, a man was stabbed outside a pub in Southport, following an argument involving three men, one of whom wore a balaclava. The victim suffered a wound to his side. The police reported that the injured man went to a hospital. His injuries were not life threatening.
Police arrested a 24-year-old man from Bootle who was found to be in possession of drugs. On February 17th, a man in his 60s was stabbed in Edge Hill around 7 AM. A man and woman, both in their 30s, were also hurt, sustaining minor injuries.
Gerry Anketell, age 37, faces charges including attempted murder and assault. He appeared in court on February 18th and remains in custody until March 18th. On February 16th, police responded to a call in Moreton where a man threatened a woman holding a baby, using a knife by the window on Witley Avenue.
The woman and baby safely exited the premises around 12:05 PM and were taken to a hospital for checks. The man barricaded himself inside, threatening officers and throwing things. Police used a baton round when he briefly exited. Finally, he came out at 12:49 PM with self-inflicted cuts and was taken to a hospital. A 37-year-old man was arrested and faces potential charges of affray, threats to kill, and assault.
Earlier, on February 1st, a boy was stabbed near a McDonald’s in Walton. Police found the 17-year-old with leg injuries around 6:30 PM. The victim was taken to a hospital where his condition was stabilized, and the McDonald’s temporarily closed for forensics teams to investigate the scene.
Knife crime has increased in the UK, according to figures including data until March of 2024. Merseyside Police reported 1,296 related offenses, encompassing murder, robbery, and assault involving knives. Police are committed to reducing knife crime through stop and search tactics, land searches, warrants, and education programs.
Police emphasize that addressing knife crime is a priority, stating that the consequences can be devastating. They urge people to discuss the dangers of knives, as both victims and offenders suffer greatly. Anyone with related information should contact the police by calling @MerPolCC, 101, or contacting Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, where anonymous tips are accepted.