NEARLY 150 teenagers at Redbridge College were searched by police last week in an attempt to discourage youths from carrying knives.

The operation, carried out by East Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT), saw 92 male and 53 female students made to walk through two knife arches in the college's main reception area.

No weapons were discovered or seized.

But a police spokeswoman said the operation was still worthwhile in combating knife crime.

She added: "The college has extended further invitations to the Area East SNT to conduct future search arch operations in the college to reassure parents and students regarding their personal safety and where necessary dealing with offenders, and taking weapons out of circulation.

"Anyone with information regarding persons they know who are carrying knives should please report it directly to their local police or anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers either via text on 88551 or by phone on 0800 555 111."

It comes after a 14-year-old was stabbed outside the college, which is on Barley Lane near the Romford border, last March.

Emmanuel Akinola, 16, from Dagenham, was sentenced to four years in prison for the attack in September.