Metal-detecting wands and increased police presence
During a recent three-day police operation across NSW, dozens of weapons were seized by police, including machetes, cleavers, folding knives, and a gun. The operation, which involved 400 police officers, aimed to detect and prevent the spread of knife crimes in the state.
- Machetes, cleavers, folding knives, and a gun were among the weapons seized during the operation.
- The operation targeted areas where knife offences had previously occurred.
- The presence of metal-detecting wands and increased police presence were part of the operation’s strategy.
The operation also led to the arrest of several individuals, including two 18-year-olds facing drug supply charges.
Some of the seized weapons
| Weapon | Location | Offender(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 40cm machete | Southeast of Canberra | 17-year-old male |
| Two knives | Bondi Junction | 37-year-old male |
| Two knives | South Coogee | 15-year-old male |
| Knife and methamphetamine | Bondi Junction | 37-year-old male |
| 14 small bags of cocaine and $1550 in cash | Bondi | 18-year-olds (drug supply charges) |
| Drugs and a knife | Woolgoolga | 23-year-old male |
The impact of the laws
The NSW laws, which allow police to stop and scan individuals without a warrant at designated areas, were introduced following a spate of high-profile knife crimes. The laws were modelled on Queensland’s Jack’s Law.
The introduction of these laws has led to a significant increase in the detection of weapons and the prevention of knife crimes in the state.
Designated areas and metal-detecting wands
Designated areas where a knife offence has taken place in the past are targeted by the operation. Metal-detecting wands are used to detect weapons on individuals, and increased police presence is maintained to ensure public safety.
Preventing the spread of knife crimes
The operation aims to prevent the spread of knife crimes in the state by detecting and deterring individuals who may be carrying or using knives.
Example of the effectiveness of the laws
An example of the effectiveness of the laws can be seen in the seizure of a 40cm machete by a 17-year-old male southeast of Canberra on Thursday. The machete was allegedly thrown over a backyard fence as the individual fled from police.
Consequences of carrying a knife
Carrying a knife can have severe consequences, including arrest, fines, and even imprisonment. The laws aim to prevent the use of knives as a means of committing crimes.
Preventing knife crimes
Preventing knife crimes requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, community engagement, and effective law enforcement strategies.
