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ACT Policing is reminding the community of knife possession laws following a recent spike in knife-related incidents across Canberra.
In the past five weeks, police have responded to carjackings, assaults and burglaries involving knives.
On 23 December 2024, two men sitting in a parked car in Macgregor were threatened at knife point by a group who demanded they get out before stealing the vehicle.
In another incident on 31 December 2024, a man was found to be in possession of a 18cm knife after having an argument with his partner at Gungahlin Marketplace.
On 3 January 2025, a 10cm folding knife was found in the bag of a Summernats attendee who told police she had it for protection.
Inspector Nigel Booth said 48 knives had been seized by police in the past five weeks and concerningly, children as young as 13 were found carrying knives.
“We know the devastating consequences that knife crime can have, including serious injury or even death,” Inspector Booth said.
“A knife escalates what is likely already a serious situation and should be treated like dangerous weapons, not a fashion accessory.
“Another concern is that people have been caught carrying knives in crowded places which carries an additional element of risk to the public.”
The public are reminded it is a serious offence to possess a knife in public where a person has no reasonable excuse to do so. ‘Personal protection’ is not a lawful reason to carry a knife. Penalties include fines and imprisonment for up to six months.