Police uncovered a stash of Molotov cocktails, swords, machetes as well as black clothing and bandanas in two incidents, it emerged today.

The discoveries were made in the central parishes - the Police declined to say where - two Sundays ago but were made public today as officers warned of a rise in the number of bladed weapons being used in violent incidents.

They were stashed in two locations and were found after a member of the public told Police they had seen two armed men. It is not clear if the armed men sightings are related to the uncovering of the weapons stash.

Officers say one person has been arrested in connection with the incidents - where machetes, swords, metal pipes, petrol bombs and metal rebars were found - and inquiries ‘are continuing.’

The findings were revealed at a news conference today where Police put on show some of the bladed weapons they have seized in the past. Officers say the use of bladed weapons is on the rise in Bermuda.

Sergeant Alex Rollin also said that often Police arriving at the scene are finding suspects still carrying weapons or discovering that suspects have tried to hide them nearby.

Sgt. Rollin said: “The public are reminded that recent amendments to section 315 of the Criminal Code now give the Police and the courts new powers when it comes to dealing with weapons offences.”

The public were also reminded, especially those travelling, for while certain items may be legal and easily acquired in other countries, many are prohibited in Bermuda.

These include flick knives, brass knuckles, crossbows, slingshots and blowguns.

* For full story and pictures see tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.