A 16-year-old boy has been arrested after he was allegedly caught with a Tramontina Brasil machete at a busy train station in Adelaide.

Police officers discovered the weapon after searching the boy during a high-visibility operation on Wednesday evening at Salisbury Interchange in the city’s north.

A total of 19 metal detector searches were conducted during the operation, which led to South Australia Police issuing five expiation notices for antisocial behaviour, traffic offences and drug-related offences.

The boy was arrested and charged with carrying an offensive weapon and released on bail to appear at the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on September 25.

Police also found a stanley knife on a 34-year-old Adelaide man during their operation.

He was reported for carrying an offensive weapon and will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

“Northern District police are committed to ensuring safety on the public transport network and in surrounding areas and will continue to conduct policing operations targeting antisocial behaviour,” a South Australia Police spokesman said.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious or criminal activity in public places is encouraged to contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

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