There can only be deep concern that four men have been wounded in two separate stabbing attacks in the space of a matter of days over the holiday period.
The most recent incident left three victims in hospital after a fight in the Ardcarn Park area of Newry on December 31, while a 19-year-old man was said to be in a serious condition when targeted in Antrim town five days earlier.
Those who set out to become involved in confrontations while carrying knives must be fully aware that they run the risk of causing grave injuries or even death.
It is essential that the courts deal firmly with anyone caught in possession of such lethal weapons in a public place.
