Samurai swords, daggers, machetes and even a meat cleaver were just some of the weapons destroyed as part of a new partnership to crack down on knife crime.

The collaboration, between Dyfed-Powys Police and waste management company Cwm Environmental, ensures seized knives are safely and responsibly destroyed.

It is the first time the force has worked in partnership with the Carmarthenshire-based company and marks a significant step forward in the force’s ongoing efforts to tackle knife crime on our streets and enhance community safety.

The knives were safely collected by Cwm Environmental earlier this month and included a substantial number of weapons that have been handed in to the force voluntarily through various amnesty collections.

Detective Chief Inspector Rhys Jones said: “Dyfed-Powys Police seize a variety of knives either as part of a crime or as part of an amnesty and have teamed up with Cwm Environmental and Carmarthenshire County Council to ensure their safe disposal.

“Every knife we take off our streets represents a potential life saved. By working in partnership with Cwm Environmental we will ensure these dangerous items are not only seized but destroyed in a safe and responsible way with the aim of making Dyfed-Powys a safter place to live.”

Cwm Environmental is committed to helping communities live more sustainably. It is also a zero-landfill business, finding innovative ways to reduce waste and create positive environmental change.

At its flagship reuse village, Canolfan Eto, refurbished items such as bikes, toys, and vintage furniture are given a second life. Cwm Environmental also produces high-quality organic compost and supports biodiversity with onsite beehives.

Sean Gallagher, managing director of Cwm Environmental, said: “By ensuring these items are safely removed from circulation and handled sustainably, we are not only helping to reduce potential harm but also contributing to a safer environment for everyone.