Authorities in Western Sydney have intensified efforts to curb a recent surge in youth gang violence and knife-related incidents through a targeted police operation conducted on Thursday. Operation Kella, which focuses on intelligence-led patrols combined with random wanding searches, saw officers screening hundreds of individuals at the Blacktown Transport Interchange and Westpoint Shopping Centre.

During the five-hour sweep, 642 people were subjected to wanding under the provisions of Jack’s Law, legislation first enacted in Queensland to empower police to detect concealed knives in high-risk locations such as transport hubs and shopping centres. Despite the high number of searches, no knives were found during this particular operation. However, four individuals were arrested on unrelated charges including outstanding warrants, possession of prohibited drugs, and offensive language. Officers also uncovered stolen property and conducted checks related to bail and apprehended violence orders.

The stepped-up police presence comes amid a recent spike in violent incidents in the region. On October 9, Joshua Smith, 36, was fatally stabbed at Mt Druitt. In a separate event on October 22, a 17-year-old boy was seriously wounded in an attack near PCYC Blacktown by a group of four assailants, one of whom was reportedly still wearing a school uniform. The teenager has since been discharged from hospital. Police arrested a 15-year-old boy less than a week later and charged him with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and affray. Authorities also continue to seek an older teenager believed to have orchestrated the attack; this individual was among those stopped by officers during Thursday’s operation.

In connection with Mr. Smith’s death, police have charged two men aged 18 and 35 with affray. Additionally, a 13-year-old boy faces a murder charge, while a 16-year-old is charged with accessory to murder after the fact.

Detective Inspector Glen Parks, the commander of Operation Kella, noted that while the frequency of wanding had led to a decrease in knife detections, the tactic remained an effective deterrent and means to disrupt violent groups. He stated that recent arrests related to last week’s stabbing had fractured the involved gang. Highlighting the dangers of knife possession, he warned individuals against carrying blades for self-protection, noting that such weapons typically escalate conflicts and increase the risk of arrest.

“There’s no legitimate reason for carrying a knife even if it is for protection,” Parks said. “If you carry a knife, the reality is you’re more than likely gonna get caught.”