The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), the executive agency of the Ministry of Defence, has showcased its latest technology designed to tackle knife crime.

Kit Malthouse, minister for crime and policing, met scientists from the lab to see how the tech worked.

The government minister was briefed on concepts to assist police identify concealed knives being developed by Dstl and industry on behalf of the Home Office.

The lab said that its efforts are focussed on developing and evaluating operational concept demonstrators for detecting knives at pinch points such as entrances to shopping centres or at ticket barriers in stations.

Alongside this, Dstl is also supporting research into emerging innovations which could underpin future detection technology.

The Minister was given a demonstration of technologies being developed that could allow law enforcement officers to “safely prevent the escalation of conflict in serious or violent circumstances through so-called ‘less lethal weapons’ that stop a subject at distance.”

Scientists also demonstrated a Dstl patented novel technology that greatly increases the performance and usability of a covert audio surveillance system.

“Knife crime destroys families and communities, so tools which can help detect and remove such weapons before they are used will be vital in preventing further tragedies,” said Malthouse. “I’m delighted to see first-hand how government investment has helped create this innovative technology.

"We will continue to back projects that use science and tech to keep the public and our brave police officers safe.”

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