Police Launch Weapons Operation at Westfield Knox
Police executed a major weapons operation at Westfield Knox today. Officers declared the entire precinct a “Designated Area” under the Control of Weapons Act 1990, allowing widescale stop-and-search powers from 12pm to 11:59pm, today, Thursday the 27th of November.
The order follows multiple violent incidents, including knife-related fights, weapon sightings and the assault of a security guard in the Knox Ozone precinct. The area is a typical example of the crime problems plaguing Victoria currently.
Search powers applied across the shopping centre, carparks, public transport zones, and the entertainment precinct.
Boundaries of the Declared Zone
Victoria Police defined the “Designated Area” using four major borders. They are Stud Road to the west, Burwood Highway to the south, Capital City Boulevard to the east and Blind Creek Trail to the north. This sweeping boundary covers every major entry to Westfield Knox, including transport corridors and pedestrian approaches.
What Police Can Do Under the Act
Inside a Designated Area, police officers and PSOs gain enhanced powers to search people, vehicles and belongings for weapons.
Today’s operation involved, pat-down searches, electronic wand checks, requests to remove outer clothing, bag and pocket inspections and vehicle searches in carparks. Officers can also direct anyone to leave the area if they refuse to remove a face covering, or if police reasonably believe they intend to engage in violence, affray or disorderly behaviour. It is an offence to obstruct officers or refuse a direction to leave the zone. Police advised shoppers to co-operate with all instructions to support public safety efforts.
Why the Operation Was Needed
The crackdown follows a run of disturbing incidents in Knox, with the Westfield Shopping precinct featuring heavily in crime related incidents.
A stabbing at Westfield Knox earlier this year involving teens, which prompted significant public concern.
Link: Teen Allegedly Stabbed Inside Westfield Knox Coles
One of the more recent crimes that has occurred was in relation to the violent security guard assault in the Knox Ozone precinct.
Link: Security Guard Assaulted in Knox Ozone Laneway
These events raised community anxiety and triggered demands for decisive action. Therefore, today’s operation aims to deter offenders, remove weapons from the community and assist in restoring public confidence.
Arrests Made During the Operation
Today’s operation resulted in arrests at Westfield Knox. Officers identified several individuals carrying prohibited items during targeted searches across the “Designated Area”. This outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of Section 1D (1) of the Control of Weapons Act 1990 and the subsequent operation conducted under its powers.
Community Impact
Shoppers experienced a heightened police presence and visible patrols. However, officers emphasised that the operation improves safety, discourages weapon-carrying and protects the community during the busy evening period. Residents widely supported the move, noting rising tension following recent crime across the municipality.
