Knife Wanding Operation At Roma

Police have charged a 23-year-old man with a knife offence as part of Operation Guardian Spirit, to deter and detect alcohol-fuelled violence and weapon offences in Roma's CBD.

During the five-day operation conducted in June,police carried out high visibility patrols in licensed venues on Wyndham Street.

Officers also conducted street checks for public order offenders and intoxicated people and used handheld scanners to detect knives and other weapons.

As part of the operation officers from Roma Police Station conducted 75 wandings and issued 2 public nuisance tickets.

A 23-year-old Roma man was charged after being found carrying a knife at a hotel on 21 June.

He has been charged with one count of possessing a knife in a public place and is due to appear in the Roma Magistrates Court on 23 July.

Roma Police station Officer in Charge Acting Senior Sergeant Scott Petrie said the operation stemmed from several recent serious assaults and incidents involving knives in the Roma CBD nightlife district.

"We have seen firsthand the devastation which can result from someone possessing a knife, and that's why we are actively out in our community to prevent any further tragedies from occurring," Acting Senior Sergeant Petrie said.

"We want to make sure people who wish to spend time in Roma's CBD after dark can do so safely.

"The operation targeted both offending behaviour and promoted community safety by engaging with the local community."

Under Jack's Law, Queensland Police Service (QPS) has the authority to conduct handheld metal detection (knife wanding) operations in designated Safe Night Precincts, public transport hubs, and other relevant locations.

Police proactively engage with relevant stakeholders to co-ordinate wanding operations, including in co-operation with business owners.

The full legislative provisions are available at: https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/view/html/inforce/current/act-2000-005#ch.2-pt.3A)