Townsville police blitz extended

Police Minister Mark Ryan and Commissioner Ian Stewart have today announced the extension of a city-wide policing blitz across Townsville.

Minister Ryan said police in Townsville continued to do an excellent job in targeting those in the community doing the wrong thing.

“In September the Palaszczuk Government announced a strikeforce for Townsville, with an increase in police allocated to Townsville as part of Operation Oscar Merchant,” Minister Ryan said.

“After discussions with the Queensland Police Service (QPS), I am happy to announce that the targeted operation in Townsville will continue for the duration of the Christmas school holiday period.

“Townsville residents will continue to see an increased police presence across the city with the continuation of 10 additional officers to support the work of local crews remaining in Townsville throughout the continuation of the operation.

“Since the start of Operation Oscar Merchant on September 20, police across Townsville have made 803 arrests and laid 1808 charges. The majority of these charges relate to drug, property and traffic matters for adult and youth offenders.

“These are significant results and the Government remains committed to its focus on crime in the Townsville community.

“The work of the Townsville Stronger Communities Action Group will also continue under Inspector Glenn Doyle, with senior representation from other key agencies to provide an integrated, whole-of-government response to youth crime issues.”

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland and Member for Mundingburra Coralee O'Rourke said local police were an important part of the Palaszczuk Government's efforts to tackle crime.

"Our police are doing great work, alongside the work of the Stronger Communities group, and I'm pleased these additional officers will continue to crack down on crime in our streets,” she said.

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said he knew these announcements would be welcomed by local police and the broader community to help reduce crime rates in Townsville, particularly over the festive season.

"I welcome and appreciate the Minister spending time on shift with officers of the QPS RAP hub in Thuringowa to really appreciate the challenges our police face on local crime issues,” he said.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the continuation of the increased police presence illustrated the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to the community’s safety.

“I thank our local police for their hard work and I know these extra officers will help crack down on crime during the school holidays,” he said.

Commissioner Stewart thanked local police and the additional officers from outside Townsville who have contributed to the initial phases of Operation Oscar Merchant.

“Our focus remains the same – we will continue to target and take enforcement action against those who continue to offend against the community,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“As part of the extended operation, there will also be an increased focus on the School Watch program throughout the holiday period.

“Through this program police will work with partner agencies to reduce vandalism, theft and arson in Queensland schools.

“The Townsville community can expect a continuation of high-visibility policing as part of our commitment to addressing youth violence and anti-social behaviour in the community.”

ENDS

Media contacts

Minister Ryan:                                                                                 0478 325 738

Police Media:                                                                                   (07) 3015 2444