Northern Territory Police Force has joined ranks with government and non-government agencies to tackle antisocial behaviour and property crime in Alice Springs these school holidays.
A peak time for local tourism, the June/July school holiday period sees an increase in visitors to Alice Springs from across the Northern Territory.
“Traditionally at this time of year we experience an influx of visitors from across Australia travelling to or through Alice Springs, said Commander Bradley Currie.
“With the cooler months comes a number of draw card events, including Territory Day, the Alice Springs Show and an upcoming AFL football match, and as a result a significant increase in visitors in the town is expected.”
“Unfortunately we also see an increased demand for police assistance in relation to antisocial behaviour, property and youth related disturbances.”
Starting today (Monday June 24), Operation Omaru will identify trends and develop mitigating strategies utilising existing partnerships with the Department of Chief Minister, Territory Families Youth Outreach and Re-Engagement Team, Tangentyere Council, Public Housing Safety and Tenancy Officers, Alice Springs Town Council and the Department of Education, Compliance and Engagement Team.
“Throughout previous operations, we’ve created good working relationships with other government and non government and we’ll be using these foundations to continue to tackle antisocial behaviour, property crime and youth related disturbances,” said Commander Currie
“There will be an increased police presence targeting known locations, and significant input and assistance from Tangentyere Council with its Night Patrols and Evening Youth Bus services.”
“Territory Families Youth Outreach and Re-Engagement Team officers play a pivotal role in assisting police in working with at risk or high risk youth.”
“Public Housing Safety Officers will continue to monitor to prevent over-crowding in houses, and assist where possible with antisocial behaviour at known locations.”
“Additionally we’ve got the Alice Springs Town Council Rangers on board to monitor public drinking and illegal camping, and Department of Education Compliance and Engagement Team who will target enrolment and attendance closer to the end of the school holidays.”
Operation Omaru starts on Monday June 24 and will operate throughout the school holidays until July 26.
