Tom Ingleton
Victoria Police have launched a high-visibility operation in Footscray, deploying uniform officers, the Public Order Response Team, Dog Squad and Highway Patrol to crack down on rising crime and anti-social behaviour.
The intensified police presence comes amid growing concerns from local traders about safety in the Footscray CBD.
Officers are focusing on drug offences, public order issues, road safety and theft–particularly a worrying 70 per cent spike in thefts from moto vehicles last year.
A mobile CCTV trailer will be placed in Nicholson Street next week to deter crime and provide live surveillance, enhancing police response to emerging incidents.
The operation, which began earlier this week, has already led to several arrests.
Seven searches were carried out on Tuesday using Passive Alert Detector (PAD) dogs trained to detect illicit substances, resulting in the seizure of cannabis and synthetic cannabis.
Five people were charged with drug-related offences, while another received a caution.
A further five individuals were arrested–three for alleged shop thefts and two for outstanding warrants.
Local officers will also be conducting foot patrols and visiting businesses to promote crime prevention measures.
Police are urging residents to take basic precautions, including locking vehicles and keeping valuables out of sight.
Maribyrnong Local Area Commander, Acting Inspector Chloe Hayward. Said the operation sends a clear message to would-be-offenders.
“Anyone coming into the area to cause trouble or commit crime is on notice-you will be detected and held accountable,” Ms Hayward said.
“This is about making Footscray safer and building stronger relationships with the local community.”
