FOUR people have been arrested for possession of prohibited weapons during a police crackdown in central Bendigo.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Police said weapons discovered included three machetes, a pair of knuckledusters, a modified golf club, and several types of knife.
An additional two people received penalty notices for weapon possession.
A 15-year-old male was arrested for drug possession. A further two people were arrested over outstanding warrants.
Those charged with weapons offences were a 19-year-old male, a 20-yer-old male, a 38-year-old male, and a 43-year-old male, all from Bendigo.
Bendigo Uniform Senior Sergeant Brian Hansen said police searched 58 people during Operation Omni, during which the CBD was declared a "designated area".
Senior Sergeant Hansen said eight edged weapons and one dangerous article were seized during the operation.
He said it was disappointing to have discovered that number of prohibited weapons.
"It's concerning that people feel the need to carry these in the community," he said.
"They're clearly weapons that cause a lot of damage they're not weapons for everyday use."
Other news:
Senior Sergeant Hansen said those charged would receive summons at a later time.
"Police have a zero tolerance for people to bring dangerous weapons into our community," he said.
"This operation was about removing these weapons from the streets, and ensuring our community feels safe in public spaces throughout the city."
Senior Sergeant Hansen said police were pleased with the response from the community to Operation Omni.
He said none of those searched had objected, while business owners and shoppers approached police to say the operation was "fantastic".
Inspector Troy Hargadon said police had zero tolerance for people bringing dangerous weapons into the community.
"There are enormous consequences associated with using a weapon against another person, it is completely unacceptable," Inspector Hargadon said.
"Anyone who thinks they can carry illegal weapons should be aware that police will find you and hold you to account."
This story was updated at 1pm to include the age and locality of those arrested.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark bendigoadvertiser.com.au
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter @BgoAddy
- Follow us on Instagram @bendigoadvertiser
- Join us on Facebook
- Follow us on Google News