A TEENAGER has been charged in connection with a stabbing that left two young men seriously wounded.

Police were called to The Level in Brighton after a “verbal and physical altercation” at 11.40am on Monday.

Three young men were allegedly involved , and two were taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital where they remain in a stable condition.

The stabbing took place the same day as the police launched a nationwide knife amnesty, Operation Sceptre, which aims to stop youngsters carrying blades in public.

Detective Inspector Simon Morgan said police have stepped up patrols to reassure residents.

He said: “The two who suffered stab wounds as a result of this altercation have been lucky as their injuries could have been a lot worse.

“Carrying a knife does not provide protection, but in fact makes you vulnerable, and as in this case, can place yourself and others in serious harm.”

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Kia Zanre, from London, was charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and possession of a knife in a public place. He was due to appear at Brighton Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

Another 18-year-old was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of affray. They remain under arrest and the investigation continues.