Specialist training for policing major events in Queensland

Minister for Police Mark Ryan and Police Commissioner Ian Stewart have announced world class specialised training being delivered to Queensland police officers aimed at preventing harm to the public or infrastructure.

Twenty-four Queensland Police officers are currently taking part in Behaviour Observation and Suspicious Activity Recognition (BOSAR) training with members of the Massachusetts State Police.

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the training was another tool in the arsenal of Queensland police to combat criminal behaviour.

“The BOSAR training is designed to enhance the capacity of police to detect, deter, prevent and apprehend people intent on causing harm to the public or infrastructure during major events such as the 2018 Commonwealth Games,” Minister Ryan said.

“This program is world class and has been adopted by a number of international law enforcement agencies.

“The roll out of this training to our Queensland Police officers helps enhance the ability of the Queensland police to keep the public safe at major events.

“This training forms part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to delivering a safe and secure 2018 Commonwealth Games and beyond.”

From a core of 24 officers trained in the use of BOSAR, the program will then be expanded to approximately 250 BOSAR trained officers by April next year.

Commissioner Ian Stewart said the training would be utilised at public events with the intent to identify and disrupt individuals wanting to harm the public or anyone associated with the event.

“Behaviour is a critical component in identifying those who are planning or preparing to engage in criminal activity,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“The BOSAR training will enhance our ability to identify warning signs of criminal intent, with the aim of stopping these intended actions before it can endanger the public.”

ENDS

Media contacts:

Minister’s Office:                     3035 8300

Police Media:                          3015 2444