Reykjavik council calls for parental engagement amid rise in knife-carrying among youth

The Reykjavik School and Leisure Council has urged parents across the city to engage in conversations with their children about the dangers associated with knife-carrying. This appeal follows a recent knife attack involving a 16-year-old during a Cultural Night event, which resulted in injuries to three individuals, including a girl who remains critically hospitalized.

In an email sent to approximately 15,000 households, the council expressed concern over a noticeable increase in knife possession among children in schools and youth activities in recent months. They termed this trend unacceptable and emphasized the importance of halting it with all available means.

According to Icelandic law, carrying weapons in public is prohibited, with the legal responsibility age set at 15. Violations can lead to fines or imprisonment for up to four years.

Helgi Grímsson, the head of the council, highlighted the need for more stringent actions in response to this alarming increase. He insisted on the necessity of collaborating with parents, schools, and youth centers to address the issue. Grímsson stated that the council views any such incidents seriously, which involves confiscating weapons and notifying child protection services and the police to stress the gravity of the situation.

He concluded firmly, “We must take all such incidents seriously, and we must collectively communicate a strong message to our children and youth: enough is enough.”