Scott Kara: Teens packing knives

If some of the latest cases of violence among teenagers are anything to go by then there are kids who are packing knives along with their wallet, inhaler, and iPhone. Photo / Thinkstock

You can see why a knife is such a popular weapon among the kids these days. They are as easy to get your hands on as raiding the kitchen drawer - and you don't need a licence to own one.

Though get caught with one in public and you're nicked, sunshine. Unless you can convince the officer that you're off on a picnic or a hunting trip with your mates, which might be perceived as a reasonable excuse.

Okay, so not all kids are knife-toting vigilantes. But if some of the latest cases of violence among teenagers are anything to go by then there are kids who are packing knives along with their wallet, inhaler, and iPhone. And it's a brutal and destructive weapon.

Sadly, 18-year-old Warren Rosillo found that out on Friday night when he was stabbed outside a party in Pakuranga. A 17-year-old man has been charged with his murder.

I've written before about how intimidating and ruthless some young people can be - and the fear they can instil in you by doing something as simple as walking along the footpath.

When I wrote about getting shunted off the pavement by a bunch of young punks a few months back many readers were passionate about taking them on, speaking up, and teaching them some respect.

Believe me, I would have loved to. But I'm glad I didn't because it's not so much about what they might do, but what they might be carrying.

According to Ministry of Justice figures 17- 20-year-olds (followed by 14- 16-year-olds) have the highest apprehension rates for possessing offensive weapons, which can include anything from guns and a knives to knuckledusters and baseball bats.

These figures have increased markedly over the last 10 years or so.

Again, this has to be tempered by the fact it's only a select few who feel the need to carry knives or other offensive weapons. And I'm not some righteous, grumpy old teen basher either.

But the bottom line is there are dangerous young people out there who are violent, fearless and don't give a hoot who they hurt.

As a dad it makes me want to surround my girls with an armour-plated bubble when they step out into the big bad world. Or at the very least teach them a martial art or two.

Because knives should be used for one thing only: preparing food.

So to all the knife carriers of the world, go and chop up some onions, or enrol yourself in a chef's course, and put your blade prowess to good use.