In response to a series of shocking stabbing incidents in Sydney, New South Wales, the NSW Police Union is urgently advocating for the introduction of detection regulations.
According to British media on April 23, the regulations will give police officers the power to use hand-held metal detectors to conduct knife searches in public places, aiming to enhance public safety without taking intrusive measures.
The recent spike in knife violence, including the alleged murder of a teenager in Doonside, a mass stabbing in Bondi, and the terrorist attack in Wakeley, prompted this positive call to action.
NSW Police Association President Kevin Morton highlighted the non-invasive nature of probe scanning, likening it to a security measure commonly seen at large events and transport hubs.
"It's a non-invasive scan that's been used in a variety of large-scale events, from concerts to sporting event finals, from boarding a plane to attending an Easter exhibition," Morton said. ”
"Searching for weapons is part of keeping people safe in NSW. We want to be proactive in preventing knife crime. It's not a law enforcement issue, it's about keeping the community safe in everyday life. ”
This position is supported by various trade unions, including the Public Service Association, the Health Services Union, and the SDA Union.
Adam Hall, secretary of the political department of the Health Services Union, stressed the importance of protecting healthcare workers who work tirelessly to care for patients in hospitals. The proposed detection regulations are designed to address the worrying trend of people carrying knives at will, which poses a threat to the safety of citizens and frontline workers.
"We can't tolerate a situation where people put on jeans and sneakers and casually hide a knife in their back pocket, which is unacceptable," he said. ”
Hall acknowledges that risks cannot be eliminated completely, but stresses the importance of minimizing them through legislative means.
"Healthcare workers have enough concerns that they deserve to feel safe while caring for patients and keeping hospitals running. The new law is very important. We can't completely eliminate the risk, but we can certainly minimize it. ”
Drawing parallels to Queensland's "Jack Act", named after the tragic stabbing of 17-year-old Jack Beasley, proponents have highlighted the potential effectiveness of similar measures in New South Wales.
By implementing detection regulations, it is hoped to prevent future tragedies and create a safer environment for all residents. The proposal emphasizes the collective responsibility to work together to solve social problems and prioritize public safety.
Critics may raise concerns about privacy and civil liberties, arguing that increasing police powers could lead to the risk of abuse. However, proponents argue that detection regulations strike a balance between security and individual rights, providing a non-invasive means of detecting covert weapons. Appropriate oversight and accountability mechanisms can be put in place to ensure that these powers are used responsibly and judiciously.