The police have reported the confiscation of 15,010 edged weapons from the streets this year, averaging 47 knives, machetes, and zombie knives each day.
This number surpasses last year’s record of 14,808 weapons, which equated to 44 per day.
A substantial portion of these weapons has been seized from homes during targeted search operations on individuals with a known history of offenses.
Authorities are also focusing their efforts on known youth gang members, who are believed to be among the most likely to carry these weapons in public spaces.
Chief Commissioner Mike Bush expressed deep concern over the issue, stating, “I am acutely aware of the anxiety knife crime causes within the Victorian community, as recent incidents have significantly impacted both the reality and perception of safety.”
“The undeniable truth is that knife crime results in severe harm and trauma, whether it’s physical or psychological,” he added.
Police have also seized weapons through bail checks, patrols in areas of known gang activity, and designated weapons search operations.
“Knives and machetes have no place at your local shopping centre, bus stop or train station, and we’ll continue to use every available avenue to ensure our community is safe,” Bush said.
