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ACT Policing has launched a City Safe campaign to address criminal and anti-social behaviour in the City and immediate surrounds.
On Monday (8 July 2024), members from across ACT’s five stations, Road Policing, and the Proactive Intervention & Diversion team commenced the high visibility operation – targeted towards addressing criminal acts in Canberra’s CBD.
Devised by ACT Policing in collaboration with the ACT Government, the campaign will focus on policing licenced premises, local businesses, and high foot traffic areas in the City and Braddon.
The operation has been established following concerns raised by local businesses regarding criminal and anti-social behaviour.
Every day, police respond to assaults, disturbances, drug incidents, property damage, robbery, sexual assault, theft and burglary in the City and Braddon areas.
ACT Policing Chief Police Officer Deputy Commissioner Scott Lee said that the launch of this campaign serves as a reminder to the community that criminal acts will not be tolerated.
“Everyone in the community has a right to feel safe, and to see these sorts of incidents occurring on a regular basis in one of the busiest precincts within the ACT is very disappointing,” Deputy Commissioner Lee said.
“Recently, I met with City business owners and operators who raised their concerns about the number of people engaging in criminal and anti-social behaviour.
“Criminal acts and anti-social behaviour significantly impacts the community, affecting their sense of safety within the community.
“This operation will see a high visibility police presence in the City and immediate surrounds, with the focus being on addressing these behaviours.
“Officers attached to the operation will be out and about, engaging with shopkeepers to identify and address incidents as they occur.
“We certainly want people to enjoy all that Canberra’s CBD has to offer, but in a responsible and considerate manner.
“Throughout the lead up to and duration of this operation we have, and will continue to, work closely with ACT Government and support services to ensure the City can be enjoyed safely by all.”
Minister for Police and Crime Prevention Mick Gentleman said the safety of the community was always the Government’s top priority.
“This campaign is a good opportunity to remind everyone of their responsibilities when they are out and about in our City precinct,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The operation will address local businesses’ concerns regarding crime and anti-social behaviour in the area and will assist in ensuring the community feels safe when coming to Canberra’s CBD.
“In collaboration with police, the ACT Government are committed to providing continued support services to address non-policing aspects of this initiative. This includes supporting community members impacted by homelessness, mental health conditions, alcohol, substance abuse and providing referrals to relevant support services.
“We look forward to working with police across the next month to address community concerns, ensure the safety of Canberrans, and ultimately maximise the outcomes of this campaign.”
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
POLICE MEDIA — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au
