Police focus on knife crime as stabbings increase in Victoria

Early this morning two men were arrested after another man was stabbed outside Inflation nightclub on King Street.

Police were called just after 5am, when an altercation broke out between several people.

The victim was taken to hospital with upper-body injuries, in a serious but stable condition.

Detectives today charged three men including a 21-year-old Point Cook man who has been charged with affray, intentionally causing injury, recklessly cause injury and posession of ammunition without a licence.

A 29-year-old man, also from Point Cook, was charged with the same offences and possession of ecstacy.

Another Point Cook man, aged 24 was also charged.

All were bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in October.

“A 21-year-old Truganina man remains in hospital under police guard receiving treatment for a hand injury. He will be interviewed at a later date,” Victoria Police said in a statement.

A 27-year-old Wollert man was allegedly stabbed and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries following the incident.

The escalation in knife crime, particularly amongst younger people has authorities concerned.

“In Victoria, it is illegal for a person to possess, carry or use a controlled weapon without a lawful excuse. It is also illegal for a controlled weapon to be sold to a person under the age of 18 years,” a police spokesperson said.

“We are sending a very clear message to any young person carrying a knife to a fight – you are going to get caught and police will hold you accountable.

“We have zero-tolerance for any violent or criminal behaviour, particularly when that includes knives or weapons. Likewise, carrying a knife for so called “self defence” is equally wrong and only serves to escalate violence. Carrying a knife in these circumstances is equally unlawful.”

Police said they are working closely with schools to address youth crime and hope to deter young people from engaging in violence.

“Young people who are arming themselves with knives and other weapons may not realise that they are in fact placing themselves in danger,” a Victoria Police statement read.

“The reality is that if someone is carrying a knife, sooner or later they are likely to use it. This could kill or seriously injure another person, or the weapon could be used against them. If you are carrying a knife it can also be taken from you and used against you.”