Police in NSW Seek Enhanced Knife Detection Abilities
Multiple unions are advocating for the right of police to use metal detectors to search individuals without a warrant.
New South Wales (NSW) unions are urging for new police “wanding” powers to detect knives in public.
Unions representing police, health, and retail workers are seeking new powers that would allow police to utilize metal detectors for searches without a warrant.
This demand comes in the aftermath of two recent stabbing incidents, namely the Bondi shopping mall stabbing spree and the alleged attack on a Christian bishop in Sydney.
Kevin Morton, President of the Police Association of NSW, stated that the “non-intrusive” search measure would assist police officers in preventing and disrupting knife-related crimes.
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“This is a non-invasive scan already utilized at various large events, from concerts to sports finals, air travel to the Easter Show. Screening for weapons is essential in ensuring the safety of the people of New South Wales,” he mentioned.
Morton elaborated that the association aims to proactively prevent knife-related crimes from occurring.
“It’s about enhancing community safety in our daily lives, not just enforcement,” he added.
The NSW unions highlighted that the laws they are pushing for are akin to those recently implemented in Queensland.
Can’t Let People Casually Slip a Knife in Their Back Pocket: Union
Adam Hall, the political division secretary of NSW Health Services Union, expressed concerns about individuals carrying knives in public spaces.
“We cannot allow individuals to simply place a knife in their back pocket while wearing jeans and sneakers. It’s unacceptable,” Hall emphasized.
“Healthcare workers already face numerous challenges and should feel secure while tending to patients and keeping our hospitals operational. The introduction of new laws is crucial. We can’t eliminate risk entirely, but we can certainly reduce it,” he remarked.
Bernie Smith, the NSW secretary of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA), mentioned the numerous incidents involving knives that have harmed retail workers.
“The SDA supports measures to ensure the safety of shopping districts, which include non-invasive tactics like wanding,” Smith stated.
“Our members advocate for stricter controls on knife sales and preemptive measures to combat knife-related crimes,” he added.
Additionally, Stewart Little, the general secretary of the Public Service Association of NSW, said, “If you’re concealing a knife, there’s a high likelihood of being caught by law enforcement.”
“It’s the peace of mind that my members desire, and it aligns with what the community wants,” he emphasized.
“Our members who work in law enforcement, youth justice, and the prison system are troubled by the rising cases of youth knife crimes. Action needs to be taken,” he concluded.
The Epoch Times has reached out to NSW Police for their response.
