Northern Territory Police have commenced hand-held scanning across the Northern Territory.
The first authority was issued in Katherine on Friday 22 September, between 12pm and 12am.
There were 124 people scanned with 3 positive results. A warning was issued to one individual and a pair of scissors were seized and disposed of. Two detections were for items deemed to be for work purposes.
A second authority was issued in Alice Springs on Saturday 23 September at 4pm until Sunday 24 September at 4am.
There were 32 people scanned with 3 youths found to be in possession of scissors. All scissors were seized and the youths were dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 2005.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Michael White APM said “These new powers were brought in to enhance NT Police’s ability to detect and remove prohibited weapons from within the community. A large portion of our frontline members are fully trained in their use and we expect all members to be able to use the scanners in the coming weeks.
“Our priority is keeping the community safe, which includes educating the wider public, especially youth, that there is absolutely no need to be carrying a knife or sharp implement within highly populated urban areas. The scanners are quick to use, discrete, and will only be employed with prior approvals from the police command.
“Police would like to thank members of public for their understanding as our officers go about protecting and serving the community.”
