POLICE tackling organised crime have intercepted parcels containing swords and a Batman throwing knife sent through the post.

The North West Regional Crime Unit – working in partnership with Cheshire Police, the Royal Mail and the UK Border Force – seized a total of 17 weapons bound for the county during a week-long crackdown.

These included three swords, seven knives, three batons, three knuckledusters and a ninja throwing star shaped similar to a Batman-style batarang.

Warrington Guardian:

Meanwhile, a total of 11 cease and desist orders were issued to businesses selling this type of weapon.

Across the north west, 180 weapons were seized and 109 cease and desist letters were sent between December 2 and 5.

The operation involved specialist officers intercepting parcels containing knives and weapons which are illegal in the UK, with many of the packages believed to have been sent from abroad.

Warrington Guardian:

Detective superintendent Ryan Davies from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit said: “Thanks to this intelligence-led co-ordinated operation, a significant number of knives and weapons have been seized and won’t make it to the streets of our region where they can cause serious harm.

“This operation is a powerful example of how collaborative working is making a difference in the fight against serious and organised crime in the north west.

Warrington Guardian:

“Be warned anyone who is thinking about buying knives or weapons either online or by any other means from overseas – you are committing an offence by bringing them into the country.

“You face the full force of the law if you do so.”