The minister said the success of the operation sent a clear message that buying, selling and carrying illegal knives will not be tolerated in NSW.
Operation Foil was conducted over 2 days in May. It targeted knife-related crime and violent offenders across the state. The high visibility operation deployed police from all 6 regions along with support from Youth Command, Police Transport Command, Public Safety Command and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command.
As part of the operation, officers attached to Operation Kella – designed to disrupt and de-escalate youth violence – executed search warrants at a market on Sunnyholt Road, Glenwood.
Police searched 4 stores seizing 238 knifes, 10 swords and more than 6000 e-cigarettes as well as several other prohibited weapons.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said:
“The Operation Foil results show the determination of the Minns Labor Government and NSW Police Force to get these dangerous weapons off our streets. The operation also sought to engage with young people before they get hold of knives to try to steer them in better directions."
“I’m incredibly proud of all the officers who took part in this operation. Their dedication and fantastic police work have helped make our communities safer.”
Commander of Operation Foil Superintendent Darren Newman said:
“Operation Foil showcases the effectiveness of large-scale police operations that involve shared resources and intel across multiple commands. Through high-visibility policing, bail enforcement and suspect targeting officers are able to focus on violent and recidivist offenders."
“The Operation Foil targeting of recidivist offenders is crucial, but we also work to provide pre-emptive engagement to youth who have been identified as being at-risk. The Youth Command engages proactively with high-risk youth via a number of programs aimed at preventing possible knife crimes from occurring.”
