The Queensland Government has released new data showcasing the impact the Queensland Police Service’s Polair division is having on the state’s youth crime crisis.
The latest figures reveal the aerial police team has assisted in the arrest 785 offenders across the South East, including 165 juveniles this financial year, playing a critical role in cracking down on vehicle thefts and armed robberies.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Dan Purdie commended the Polair team for its precision and effectiveness in tracking suspects and supporting frontline police.
“The Crisafulli Government takes a zero-tolerance to crime as we tackle the Labor Government’s Youth Crime Crisis. If you’re breaking the law, our police will find you and you will face our tough Adult Time, Adult Crime laws,” Minister Purdie said.
“These results show how our aerial police give our officers the edge they need to stay one step ahead of offenders. These young offenders need to understand: there are no easy getaways.”
Since July 1 2024, the Polair team responded to more than 1,500 priority incidents, including nearly 500 high priority Code 1 and Code 2 jobs within just 12 minutes of dispatch. The helicopters were also the first police asset on scene in more than half of all callouts.
With 31 Tactical Flight Officers operating advanced aerial surveillance systems, officers on the ground are provided with the intelligence and situational awareness needed to safely intercept offenders and prevent further harm.
Beyond its crime response, Polair has supported 131 missing person operations, including searches for vulnerable children, elderly Queenslanders and those with medical conditions.
Minister Purdie experienced first-hand the capability of Polair, becoming involved in a police pursuit of a stolen vehicle through the streets of Logan on 23 April during an operational flight.
“Despite being airborne, it was a very grounding experience to sit alongside the crew as they helped track another stolen car last month,” he said.
