NSW POLICE
Police in the NSW Western Region have charged more than 190 people with property crime offences as part of Operation Regional Mongoose.
The ongoing operation, which began on 27 September last year, targets serious property-related crime predominately committed by young offenders.
To date, the operation focussed on areas including Dubbo, Tamworth, Moree, Orange, Gunnedah, Bourke and has resulted in 192 people – including 140 juveniles – charged with more than 1,617 offences, of those 275 were for breach of bail.
Local police have been supported by specialist statewide units including the Police Airwing, Police Transport Command, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Public Order & Riot Squad and Dog Squad.
Commander of Western Region, Assistant Commissioner Rod Smith said police have used specific targeting strategies to detect and disrupt offenders responsible for committing these offences across the region.
“We have seen in several cases that elderly and vulnerable people are being targeted, with no hesitation to inflict or threaten violence on victims,” Asst Commissioner Smith said.
“We will continue to take steps to keep our communities safe, we will continue to arrest and charge serious offenders, both youths and adults, and put them before the courts.
“The Youth Command supports local police districts through many prevention and diversionary programs across the region of Western NSW.
“These programs engage with a significant number of young people throughout the region, drawing them away from boredom and the environment that often leads to offending.
“We are seeing great success and support from local communities in these programs, and it is critical that we continue to target serious offenders, as well as provide diversionary opportunities for potential offenders,” he said.
Investigations under Operation Regional Mongoose are continuing.
Anyone with information about Operation Regional Mongoose is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
