Police have conducted the first wanding operation in Coolangatta over the weekend, targeting public spaces to detect and deter knife crime.
Under Jack's Law, police are authorised to use handheld metal detection wands in designated areas to scan for weapons and remove them from the community. The new legislation expands the locations where wanding can occur to include shopping centres, sporting venues, entertainment precincts and licensed premises, in addition to Safe Night Precincts and public transport.
Officers from the Southern Patrol Group conducted the two-day operation, Operation Xray Marshall, between 3pm and 7pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Across the weekend 147 individuals were wanded, 84 street checks were conducted, 4 people were located in possession of scissors and a screwdriver and 5 people were dealt with for offences including possessing a knife in public, dangerous drugs, utensils, graffiti instruments, stolen property, restricted medicines and a weapon.
Officer in Charge at Coolangatta, Senior Sergeant Rob Finlay, said the operation was an important step in ensuring community safety.
"This was the first wanding operation for Coolangatta under the recently expanded Jack's Law and the results send a clear message to the community and those who think it's acceptable to carry knives or other weapons in public," Senior Sergeant Finlay said.
"Knife crime has devastating consequences, and Jack's Law gives us the ability to proactively target those who may pose a risk.
"By carrying out these operations in licensed venues and public spaces, we're preventing potential harm before it occurs."
"It was pleasing to see the vast majority of patrons doing the right thing. We received plenty of positive feedback from the community, who welcomed the strong police presence and told us they'd like to see more of this type of activity."
"Overall, patrons were well behaved, but there were some concerning detections including a man attempting to enter a licensed premises while carrying a screwdriver. These are exactly the types of situations Jack's Law is designed to address."
Police will continue to conduct wanding operations in the Coolangatta area as part of ongoing efforts to keep the community safe.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
