The NSW Police Force have launched a high-visibility policing operation ahead of Anzac Day, one of the nation’s most important occasions.
Operation Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Tony Cooke, was joined by Minister for Veterans, John Sidoti, RSL NSW President, James Brown, and Transport for NSW Executive Director Sydney Coordination Office, Steve Issa, to launch Operation Anzac Day 2019 at 1pm today (Wednesday 24 April 2019).
The police operation will involve general duties officers, assisted by specialist police, including the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Police Transport Command, to ensure the safety of the community.
Police will be out in force at Sydney CBD events tomorrow (Thursday 25 April 2019), including the Dawn Service, Anzac Day March, Commemoration Service, and Sunset Service.
In addition, officers from Police Area Commands and Police Districts across the state will patrol local and regional events to ensure this national day of remembrance is commemorated appropriately.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Tony Cooke said police are reminding the public to be respectful, sensible, and to take responsibility for themselves and others during tomorrow’s celebrations.
“Anzac Day is about honouring the brave men and women who served our country and who paid the ultimate sacrifice in fighting for our freedom,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
“Like all major events, we want people to enjoy Anzac Day in a safe and secure environment, without the fear of being subjected to anti-social behaviour or alcohol-related crime.
“Police are encouraging anyone planning to attend one of the many events across the state, to do so safely and in the spirit of comradery and mateship, to look out for one another,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
As large crowds are expected in the CBD, police are encouraging people to leave the car at home and use public transport.
Many roads will be closed, and special-event clearways will be in place throughout the Sydney CBD.
“Anyone driving in the CBD should expect significant delays and take care, as there will be heavy pedestrian traffic.
“Public transport is there for everyone to use for what is set to be an enjoyable Anzac Day. Do not ruin what should be a good day, with foolish behaviour.
“Consuming alcohol on public transport is not permitted and the Police Transport Command will be targeting anyone drinking alcohol on trains, buses and ferries,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, John Sidoti said Anzac Day is an opportunity for NSW to come together to pay tribute to the first Anzacs and to all the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have since followed in their footsteps.
“I encourage people to attend tomorrow’s commemoration events, either in their local area or to make the journey into the Sydney CBD for the annual Anzac Day Dawn Service and March,” Mr Sidoti said.
For special-event traffic and transport information, head to www.transportnsw.info.
