A RISK P1 Portable Walk-Through Metal Detector supplied by RISK Metal Detectors has been deployed by Staffordshire Police as part of proactive efforts to tackle knife crime and reassure local communities through the Ditch the Blade campaign.
Funded by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, one of the campaign’s partner organisations, the RISK P1 portable knife arch was positioned at the entrance to Hanley Bus Station, screening members of the public as they entered and exited the site.
Designed for rapid deployment, the RISK P1 provides instant detection of metallic objects. When a potential threat is identified, the system alerts officers, allowing them to carry out further searches where appropriate. Its portability enables police to move the detector between locations, supporting high-visibility operations at transport hubs, events, and other areas with significant pedestrian traffic.
The deployment forms part of Staffordshire Police’s wider approach to reducing knife crime, combining preventative education, community engagement, and targeted enforcement.
Chief Inspector Dave Barrow, Staffordshire Police’s force lead for knife crime, said:
“This new knife arch will be used across the city at various upcoming events and throughout the summer.
“It allows officers to be visible in areas of high footfall and educate people about knife crime and the consequences of carrying one.
“We will continue to take robust action against those who carry weapons in Stoke-on-Trent and wider Staffordshire and encourage anyone carrying a knife to surrender it anonymously through the local network of knife surrender banks.”
Portable walk-through metal detectors are increasingly being used by police forces, local authorities, schools and event organisers to strengthen security operations while maintaining a visible and reassuring presence. Their ability to be deployed quickly without permanent installation makes them well suited to temporary screening operations and community safety initiatives such as Ditch the Blade.
The RISK P1 is notable for its modular design, allowing it to be quickly assembled and disassembled, making it suitable for rapid deployment at various locations such as town centers and stadiums.
This device has gained popularity in the UK, used by police, security services, private companies, and schools. It features 24 detection zones, a 12000mAh battery, IP67 rain cover, and up to 255 sensitivity levels.
If you would like to find out more about the RISK P1 Portable Knife Arch, please call us on 01722 444 983 or click here.
