A spate of knife-related crimes across Tayside has prompted one of the region’s most senior police officers to warn weapon-carriers that they could “end up a murderer or murdered.”
Concerned by a number of “significant” incidents over the past fortnight, Assistant Chief Constable Angela Wilson has moved to reassure the public that the issue will be tackled head on.
She said, “There are just millimetres between life and death where someone is prepared to use a knife.
“No one should believe for one second that the carrying of a knife or offensive weapon in any way protects them, makes them in some how invincible, or adds to their imaginary street credibility.
“Carry a knife and you could end up a murderer, or murdered.
“Be in absolutely no doubt, if we find you in possession of a knife you will be arrested and face the full punishment of law.”
A 22-year-old man was assaulted in Perth at the weekend by an attacker who is believed to have had a bladed instrument.
Earlier this month, a 21-year-old man appeared in private at Dundee Sheriff Court following an alleged stabbing in Albert Square.
Two Perthshire men have appeared on petitions alleging they repeatedly stabbed a 26-year-old Blairgowrie man with a knife last month.
Figures show that violent crime has actually fallen within the last year, including incidents involving knives or sharp instruments.
Almost nine out of 10 violent crime offences are detected, while three quarters of offences involving knives are successfully traced.
Ms Wilson said there can be “terrible consequences” for the victim, their family and friends, and even the perpetrator when a weapon is used.
She said, “It would be very easy for us to take comfort in the knowledge that there has been a significant reduction in violent crime across the Tayside area over the past year.
“But I am concerned that recent incidents, while not indicating a particular pattern of behaviour, or pointing towards an overall increase in this type of crime, clearly show that people are still prepared to carry knives and in some cases use them.”
Tayside Police use focused operations to crack down on knife crime, with officers equipped with portable metal detectors to assist with intelligence-led stop and searches.