Victoria Police have seized nine weapons and arrested four people following a targeted enforcement operation at Stockland Plaza in Ballarat, as authorities continue efforts to address illegal weapons in public places.

The operation involved approximately 30 police officers who conducted more than 300 searches at the shopping centre during the previous week. Officers used electronic detection wands as part of their efforts to identify people carrying prohibited or potentially dangerous items.

Police confirmed that nine weapons were seized during the operation. Among the items recovered was a meat cleaver allegedly carried by a 44-year-old man, who was arrested and charged with carrying a controlled weapon. A hammer was also among the weapons seized.

The enforcement activity was aimed at identifying people carrying illegal weapons and addressing safety concerns in a busy public environment. Shopping centres are regularly visited by families, workers, shoppers and young people, making public safety an important consideration for local authorities.

The operation was conducted as part of Victoria Police's broader efforts to enforce weapons laws and deter people from carrying prohibited items in public spaces. Electronic detection devices can assist officers in identifying concealed metal objects during searches, although further investigation may be needed to establish whether an item breaches legislation.

Police arrested four people in total during the operation. The available report did not specify the identities of all those arrested, the complete list of seized items or the charges faced by the other individuals.

The operation has brought attention to the enforcement of weapons laws in regional Victoria, where police conduct targeted patrols and searches in public areas to respond to safety concerns. Such activities may also involve engagement with businesses, security personnel and members of the public.

For residents and visitors to Ballarat, the police operation is a reminder that carrying controlled weapons without lawful authority can lead to criminal charges. The legality of an item depends on the relevant legislation and the circumstances in which it is carried.

The 44-year-old man charged over the alleged possession of a meat cleaver will have the opportunity to respond to the allegation through the court process. Those arrested are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Victoria Police have not reported further details about the operation's future schedule or whether additional enforcement activities will take place at the shopping centre.

The incident forms part of ongoing police efforts to address weapons-related offences and maintain safety in public spaces across Ballarat and surrounding communities.