Ipswich Police Seize Seven Knives from Man in CBD Crackdown

A recent police operation in Ipswich CBD has resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of several weapons, including seven knives from one individual, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat knife crime in the area.



On October 2, Ipswich police conducted a coordinated surge operation across three key locations: the Safe Night Precinct, the train station, and a local shopping centre. The operation, which included high-visibility patrols and wanding under Jack’s Law, led to the scanning of 71 individuals and resulted in 10 people being charged with 14 offences.

The most significant arrest came at an Ipswich train station, where a 20-year-old man was found in possession of seven knives and drug paraphernalia during a wanding check. Despite claiming the knives were related to a former career as a chef, police determined that the items did not match this description. The man has been charged with possessing a knife in a public place and is scheduled to appear before Ipswich Magistrates Court on October 30.

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Acting Inspector Lee Fortune of the Ipswich Police praised the operation’s success, noting that it marked the first wanding operation in a shopping centre. “The feedback we received from locals was overwhelmingly positive,” Fortune stated. He emphasised the impact of these proactive efforts in seizing weapons and preventing potential violent offences.

Since the statewide implementation of Jack’s Law in April 2023, Ipswich has seen 135 wanding operations resulting in the seizure of 57 weapons. This recent operation underscores the police’s commitment to utilising the expanded powers granted under Jack’s Law to enhance community safety.



The Ipswich police expressed gratitude for the support from the community and local businesses, pledging to continue their efforts in creating safer public spaces throughout the city.

Published 5-October-2024