Police from the Darling Downs District are set to intensify efforts to disrupt crime across the South Burnett with the launch of Operation Martello, which will run until 14 December.
The high-visibility operation will see specialist police units collaborating to target high-risk offenders, drug and property crime, and anti-social behaviour.
Operation Martello will complement the work local police have already been doing across the district which includes the arrest of 86 people on 481 property and criminal charges between 1 July and 24 November this year.
Southern Region Assistant Commissioner Matthew Vanderbyl said the operation is a proactive and targeted approach to maintaining community safety while ensuring victims of crime feel supported.
“Operation Martello is about disrupting crime and ensuring those engaging in unlawful activity are held to account,” Assistant Commissioner Vanderbyl said.
“This is a targeted operation bringing together police from various units, including the State Flying Squad, tactical crime squads from all three districts in the Southern Region, officers from the Murgon and Kingaroy Criminal Investigation Branch and Child Protection Investigation Unit, Darling Downs Highway Patrol units and general duties officers from Murgon and Kingaroy.
“We are not only focusing on enforcement but also engagement – supporting victims of crime and keeping them informed throughout the investigative process.”
Operation Martello will focus on known crime hotspots, with officers conducting patrols, vehicle stops, knife wanding and bail compliance checks as well as engagement activities with residents and local business owners.
“Our priority is detecting, deterring and disrupting crime across the district. We are also focused on preventing crime before it happens and to make sure the South Burnett remains a safe place for residents and visitors,” Assistant Commissioner Vanderbyl said.
“We also understand that being a victim of crime can be a distressing experience, which is why we are committed to closing the loop – engaging with victims to ensure they feel supported and kept up to date on the progress of investigations.”
