Benjamin Millar
Victoria Police has launched a high visibility operation targetting antisocial behaviour in foreshore areas where bumper crowds are expected to flock this summer.
Running from this week until next March, Operation Summersafe will see police proactively patrolling busy foreshore locations including the beaches, parks, shopping and entertainment districts and nearby public transport hubs in popular summer destinations including Altona and Williamstown.
Local police will be supported on patrol by state-based specialist resources including the Williamstown-based Water Police, Mounted Branch, Public Order Response Team and the Transit Safety Division.
Acting Superintendent Sharon McCrory said the strategy will be centred around keeping the community safe by maintaining public order, detecting, and disrupting criminal offending and keeping roads safe by conducting roadside drug and alcohol tests.
“This summer, we want to see all Victorians out and about enjoying our state’s coastal areas after a really difficult year for everyone,” she said.
“We’ll be there side-by-side with the community to ensure everyone enjoys summer safely.”
Acting Superintendent Sharon McCrory said revellers drinking to excess or taking illicit substances can contribute to alcohol-fuelled violence, risk-taking behaviour and drink or impaired driving.
“Every Victorian has overcome yet another challenging year and police want every member of our community to have the opportunity to celebrate safely surrounded by friends, family and loved ones,” she said.
“Our message to anyone impacting other’s celebrations in the warmer months is simple – we will not tolerate any anti-social behaviour. Respect the community you are in, respect the local residents, and, most importantly, respect the safety of others around you.”
Highway patrol officers will continue to monitor local areas and adapt their operations and general patrols to target reckless driver behaviour.
Road policing operations will continue to target speeding, impaired driving, and driver distraction.
To report any suspicious behaviour call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, or in an emergency call 000.
