South Australia Police (SAPOL) will bolster its presence with additional officers attending the North Terrace precinct as part of Operation Paragon.
SAPOL will increase its policing presence made up of mobile and foot patrols, as well as Mounted Operations in the city centre to address anti-social behaviour and offences of violence through a highly visible presence.
Acting Commissioner Linda Williams said the presence of additional police officers around the North Terrace precinct is a high priority.
“We understand the fear of crime in the city and having additional police officers in the area will provide reassurance to the community,” Acting Commissioner Williams said.
SAPOL will provide a strong visible presence within this area and this includes a proactive approach from officers as part of Operation Paragon.
“Operation Paragon is focussed on addressing alcohol related anti-social behaviour in the CBD through a multi-agency approach. It helps to facilitate access to support services that address the health and welfare needs of at risk individuals in the community. Operation Paragon resources will be significantly increased with the addition of police from other districts and other SAPOL Services.”
District police will be assisted by Licensing Enforcement Branch, State Operations Support Branch, Road Policing Section, Mounted Operations Unit, and Security Response Section. Police will also use CCTV cameras to identify issues and to identify people post offending for evidentiary value.
Police are also working with key stakeholders such as the Liquor Licencing Commissioner, businesses, hoteliers and others to provide assistance and strategies to maintain public safety and public perception of safety.
During Friday and Saturday nights from 6pm until 6am the West End of the city is a Declared Public Precinct. This gives police additional powers to ensure community safety in this area.
SAPOL are keen to seek to extend this to seven days per week as well as reviewing the area of the DPP and are currently preparing a submission in support of an extension.
