Policing blitz working to restore community confidence

The Palaszczuk Government’s city-wide policing blitz is helping to restore community confidence after 82 arrests were made in the first week of Operation Oscar Merchant.

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland and Member for Mundingburra Coralee O’Rourke said Townsville was already seeing the benefits of tougher policing, with 30 officers deployed to the city last week.

“The statistics speak for themselves – the Palaszczuk Government is taking real action to address crime in Townsville,” Minister O’Rourke said.

“Through the creation of the Townsville Strikeforce, and by inserting this extra police presence, we are showing the community we are serious about tackling this issue. 

“We know police aren’t the only answer to crime, which is why we have devised a long-term strategy to address community safety, service delivery, housing, education, training and health – issues young people are facing before and after they enter the justice system.

“This is just one element of the Palaszczuk Government’s Townsville Strikeforce, which is expected to progress in the coming weeks to stop the cycle of crime.

“I understand how important it is for people to feel safe in their own communities, and I hope that the first week of Operation Oscar Merchant results will help to restore some of our community’s confidence.”

Police Minister Bill Byrne said he was pleased the results of Operation Oscar Merchant were already being seen in Townsville.

“There’s no doubt local police are doing an excellent job in difficult circumstances, but with the support of an additional 30 officers, we are seeing an even bigger crack down on crime,” Minister Byrne said.

"I praise their hard work, and I am certain we will continue to see results as this tough policing measure works in with the whole-of-government response to crime in Townsville."

The Queensland Police Services report police have arrested 64 adults on 105 charges, as well as 18 young people on 48 charges, since the start of Operation Oscar Merchant.

The majority of these charges relate to property, drug and traffic offences.

Media contacts:                

Minister O’Rourke's office – 0434 849 454

Minister Byrne's office – 0400 622 433