Last week a Katana attack took place in Saint-Denis. More and more swords, knives and machetes are available for sale on the island. However, they are prohibited on public roads.
The scene made the rounds on social networks. A chase took place in broad daylight, a young man had a katana in his hand. The bladed weapon was identified by law enforcement. These weapons are increasingly used in conflicts between young people.
If the possession of a sword, katana or even knife is authorized at home, these objects are considered category D weapons: carrying and transporting them on public roads is subject to a legitimate reason.
“We see more and more young people with weapons. Carrying and transporting a weapon such as a knife or a baton without a legitimate reason is strictly prohibited. precise Aude Robert Departmental Secretary of the SGP Police Unit.
Agricultural use, pruning or even moving, the validity of the reason for transporting a category D weapon is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the judge or by the police who take into account the location or the context:
“You should know that the legislation applies and punishes the possession, outside one's home, of a bladed weapon with fines of up to 15,000 euros and one year in prison. Depending on the specific circumstances, up to 30,000 euros and 2 years in prison,” according to Me Jean Christophe Molière.
The police specify that holding a sword or a knife to defend oneself does not under any circumstances constitute a legitimate reason. Even as a preventative measure, such behavior is punishable by law.
