Police have issued a number of fines during an operation targeting criminal and anti-social behaviour on regional trains.
Operation Aurora ran 20 and 21 April and saw Transit Safety Division officers, local uniform and plain clothes police teaming up with Authorised Officers to patrol V/Line trains and train stations from Southern Cross Station along the Gippsland rail corridor.
Overall, officers conducted approximately 300 people checks and issued a number of penalty notices against the Public Transport Safety Act, including failing to hold a valid ticket and failing to produce evidence of concession.
Officers also focused on detecting and deterring commuter anti-social behaviour, crimes against the person, property damage and vehicle crime with patrols at train stations, including Drouin, Morwell and Traralgon
Transit Safety Division Acting Detective Sergeant Luke Swift said:
“Victoria Police does not tolerate violence or antisocial behaviour in any setting, and that includes on our public transport networks and transport hubs.
“We regularly run joint operations with V/Line from Melbourne onto regional trains and at regional train stations.
“This operation was aimed at targeting anti-social behaviour and public order issues on the Gippsland rail corridor.
“The community has the right to feel safe so we will continue to run these operations targeting those who do the wrong thing.”
Victoria Police encourages anyone who experiences antisocial or criminal behaviour on or around public transport hubs to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00 or call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
Victorians are reminded that a fitted face mask covering your nose and mouth must be worn on public transport.
For non-urgent crime reporting, contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
