Police seize more than 90 knives across NSW in random 'wanding' operations

NSW Police have taken 91 knives from 67 people across the state in the few months since new "wanding" laws were introduced.

Laws instated in December allow police to search people for knives using a handheld scanner in certain public locations.

Since then, police have searched 4147 people at train stations, shopping centres, sporting venues and nightlife precincts.

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Police have said they found 91 illegal weapons, leading to 67 people being charged with 71 different offences.

In 34 police operations across NSW, officers seized tasers, slingshots, knuckle dusters, machetes and an extensive variety of knives.

"The number of weapons that have been seized already is shocking," NSW Premier Chris Minns said.

"To have taken almost 100 knives and other weapons off our streets is as horrifying as it is important.

"Our tough knife laws are working and getting weapons out of our community."

NSW laws giving police "wanding" powers take after Jack's Law in Queensland, which was legislated after the stabbing death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley in 2019.

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"There are only very few purposes for anyone to have a knife in their possession in public," NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell said.

"In most circumstances, it is illegal and will only lead to tragedy and the death of innocent people."

Carrying a knife in public without a reasonable excuse can bring a maximum fine of $11,000 or four years in jail.

Last year's law changes also made it illegal to sell knives to children under the age of 18.

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