A 16-year-old boy will be proceeded against after police located a machete during proactive patrols in Sandy Bay on Friday, 26 June 2026.
Officers were conducting high-visibility patrols in the area when they stopped the youth and conducted a search using handheld metal detection wands. The wands indicated the presence of a concealed metal object, leading police to locate and seize a machete.
The youth will be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act in relation to weapon offences.
Sergeant Nick Grubb said the incident highlighted the effectiveness of proactive policing strategies and the use of metal detection technology.
"The use of metal detection wands provides our officers with an additional tool to identify dangerous weapons and help keep our community safe," Sergeant Grubb said.
"Carrying weapons in public places is unacceptable and Tasmania Police will continue to conduct proactive patrols to detect and prevent this type of offending. Community safety remains our priority, and we will continue to take action against those who choose to carry dangerous weapons."
Anyone with information about weapons-related offending is encouraged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000, or report information online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
