15 people were arrested and nearly 80 infringements issued during a three-day long operation last week aimed at boosting safety in the city.
About 50 extra officers converged on the city on each of the three days patrolling busy areas including public transport hubs as part of Operation Broom, supporting the work done everyday by local police in the city.
Police were targeting persons of interest or those on outstanding warrants in relation to robberies and thefts, while also targeting drug crime and anti-social behaviour.
The operation saw uniform and plain clothed police combine with specialist resources from the Public Order Response Team, Mounted Branch, Transit Safety Division, Dog Squad and Highway Patrol utilising Automatic Numberplate Recognition Technology to saturate the area while gathering intelligence and targeting crime.
Key results from the operation show officers:
- Arrested 15 people for a range of offences, including outstanding warrants, drug possession and weapon offences.
- Issued 78 infringement notices for traffic offences
- Checked 725 cars through ANPR and intercepted 70 cars
- Detected 1 drunk driver; and
- Spoke with over 360 people.
On Tuesday at about 3pm, officers working as part of Operation Broom were on the lookout for persons of interest and conducting relevant checks inside Melbourne Central.
Officers approached a female who allegedly tried to walk away while throwing a knife to the ground.
Police attempted to stop her when she allegedly became aggressive and produced another knife. Officers deployed OC spray and arrested the woman.
The 37-year-old female was subsequently charged with weapon offences and resisting arrest. She was bailed to appear at court at a later date.
Passive Alert Detection (PAD) Dogs patrolled the streets, sniffing out anyone carrying illicit drugs.
Four drug offences were identified through the use of PAD dogs in the city, including those allegedly carrying small quantities of drugs including cannabis.
Operation Broom ran from 11 to 13 July.
Police will continue to run regular operations in the city targeting crime while also boosting safety measures.
Anyone with information about criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Melbourne Acting Inspector Colin Provan:
“Our policing model sees a highly visible, robust police presence dedicated to the city 24/7.
“Operation Broom aimed to prevent crime, target offenders and improve overall safety in the city. This work in the city will not stop.
“Our goal is to always increase safety for those who live, work and visit Melbourne.”
