Some Robberies Involving Children

The beautiful Australian state, Victoria, is now facing problems with robberies. Statistics show that robbery reports are averaging two cases daily. These attacks involve street robberies and knife attacks in licensed premises. If it is any consolation, attacks in convenience stores and service stations have dropped because of CCTV use.

With robbery attacks prevalent in the city, what is even more disturbing are cases where minors are part of the crime. Statistics show that children as young as 10 are involved in such. Statistics also reveal that there has been a 45% increase in involvement of younger children. Records show that there are 58 children aged 10-14 who were apprehended and caught last year. Another record shows that 287 teenagers aged 15-19 faced arrest and inquiry with robbery charges. These young offenders used knives as weapon.

With a 9.4% increase in knife-armed robberies and police intelligence reports saying that there are more people carrying knives, the state’s government agreed on new search laws to be introduced this year. Deputy Commissioner Sir Ken Jones stated clearly that the police force will be serious in implementing the new search law, once it is passed. The new law, which is based on UK’s law, states that there are designated areas where police officers can search for any concealed weapon – especially knives.

Though policemen are aware that some Victorians carry knives mainly for protection, they ask the public to support the new law. Deputy Commissioner Jones is stern in reminding the public on what they should do, in times of crisis like this, and that is to just walk away. He also reminded youngsters to stop carrying knives as if it were a fashion statement because knives can only lead them to dark places, make them do wrong things, and can cause their arrest. In addition to his reminders, Jones said that they are also eyeing knives sales especially hunting and military knives.

Using of knives in robbery attacks revived it earliest use – as a tool for hunting food and as protection to wild animals and other tribes. But in this century of technology and civilization, knives become a dangerous tool that could hurt others. Knives’ history should enlighten people and remind them that knives were made to aid in living and not to cause distress to others. Just like the custom bowie knife and the military bowie knife which have surpassed challenges and time.