15 arrests and samurai sword seized in Rotherham police day of action

The weapons were seized from Rotherham’s Wharncliffe flats during today’s efforts as part of Operation Duxford.

Four warrants were carried out in the morning, with drugs found and two people being processed this afternoon on related offences.

A stolen vehicle was found — containing two suspects — and two e-scooters have also been seized.

The total of 15 arrests across the borough so far have included matters related to domestic abuse and acquisitive crime. More action is taking place during the rest of the day.

Chief Supt Steve Chapman, Rotherham’s district commander, briefed officers outside Riverside House at 2.30pm ahead of this afternoon’s Duxford activities.

After he told the Advertiser: “It’s been really good so far. We’ve been building on the work on cannabis cultivation, we’ve made 15 arrests and recovered and disclaimed some weapons.

“The two people arrested in the vehicle were wanted in relation to multiple crimes across two force areas.”

The regular Op Duxford days also include community safety and engagement work, such as vehicle speedwatches.

Chief Supt Chapman said: “Coming out of Covid and being able to pull resources together in this way, I think is really commendable.”