Gold Coast police have arrested a teenager after locating two knives during proactive wanding operations as part of Operation Luminous, which is targeting crime hotspots and public transport hubs across the district during the school holidays.
Operation Luminous forms part of ongoing proactive policing and community engagement activities under Operation Forge, a state-wide initiative targeting property crime and serious repeat offenders.
At approximately 2pm, on 6 July, officers were conducting a wanding operation at Helensvale train station when they approached a group of male teenagers.
It will be alleged that during the operation a boy indicated he was carrying a knife. Police searched the boy and allegedly located a folding knife concealed in his waistband and a sheathed fishing knife attached to his left hip. Both knives were seized, and the boy was subsequently arrested.
The 14-year-old Pimpama boy was dealt with under provisions of the Youth Justice Act for possession/use of dangerous article.
Operation Luminous is a high-visibility policing operation being conducted across the Gold Coast during the school holidays, with officers deployed to transport hubs, shopping centres and central business districts to engage with the community, deter offending and detect weapons.
Since 27 June, officers involved in Operation Luminous have conducted 372 wandings, including 245 juveniles and 127 adults. Police have also completed 224 street checks, 72 shopping centre walkthroughs and more than 400 community engagements.
The operation has resulted in two knives being seized, with nine offenders charged with a total of 12 offences.
Superintendent Brett Jackson said the operation was focused on ensuring people could safely enjoy public spaces during the school holidays.
“Operation Luminous provides a highly visible police presence in areas where families, commuters and young people gather during the school holidays,” Superintendent Jackson said.
“Every knife removed from a public place is one less weapon that has the potential to cause serious harm.
“Our officers will continue conducting proactive wanding operations, engaging with the community and taking enforcement action where necessary to help keep the Gold Coast safe.”
Operation Luminous will continue throughout the school holiday period.
