QUEENSLAND police have seized more than 1400 knives and edged weapons and charged almost 3000 people following nearly 200,000 wanding scans since July last year.
The figures mark a significant milestone for Jack’s Law, which gives police powers to use handheld metal detectors to scan people for knives and other edged weapons in designated public spaces.
Queensland Police Service said 1,439 weapons had been seized through the operation, which is aimed at preventing knife crime before violence occurs.
Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly said wanding was one of several high-visibility policing measures being used across transport hubs, entertainment precincts and community spaces.
“Each of these 200,000 wanding scans is an opportunity for police officers not only to engage with members of our community but to reinforce the law,” he said. “There is never a need to carry a knife or weapon in Queensland.”
Deputy Commissioner Kelly also acknowledged the Beasley family for their continued advocacy for Jack’s Law and work with police. “Our officers are using every tool available to prevent weapons on our streets,” he said.