A SAPOL operation targeting anti-social behaviour at a major shopping centre and nearby business precinct in the southern suburbs has resulted in multiple arrests and evictions.
Officers from SAPOL’s Southern District instigated the operation at Colonnades Shopping Centre in August 2021 following consultation with local stakeholders.
Police Minister Vincent Tarzia said the operation focussed on the reported dealing and consumption of illicit substances, underage drinking and loitering outside of business hours.
The operation concluded at the end of September 2021 and resulted in a substantial decrease in anti-social behaviour and offending.
Some of the results of the operation include:
|
Incidents |
25 |
|
Arrests |
9 |
|
Report |
2 |
|
Traffic Infringement Notice |
6 |
|
General Expiation Notice |
14 |
|
Evictions |
2 |
|
Defect |
2 |
“This is a fantastic result for the southern suburbs community and business owners,” Minister Tarzia said.
“SAPOL listened to the concerns of the community, acted in a targeted manner and achieved great results that have undoubtedly made a big difference.
“COVID-19 has been challenging for local businesses, and owners deserve to be able to trade in peace to earn a living. The same goes for customers – they should feel like they can safely shop at any location in South Australia.
“Since 2018, the Marshall Liberal Government has supported SAPOL with more than $270 million in extra funding to keep South Australians safe and strong.
“We’ve put hundreds of additional officers on the beat to protect the community.
“This week 23 new SAPOL officers graduated and will be posted to several areas across the state, including nine graduates who will work in Berri, Murray Bridge, Kadina, Victor Harbor and Whyalla to prevent regional crime.”
The results from the operation contribute to SAPOL’s August crime statistics which have been released today.
When the 12-month period from September 2020 to August 2021 is compared to the previous rolling year, the latest SAPOL data reveals that:
- Offences Against Person/Property decreased by 6% or 7,033 offences.
- Serious Criminal Trespass decreased by 12% or 1,798 offences.
- Total Offences Against Property decreased by 9% or 7,911 offences.
- Theft and Related Offences decreased by 12% or 5,928 offences.
- Other Theft decreased by 16% or 3,771 offences.
- Property Damage and Environmental decreased by 5% or 1,014 offences.
A small 4% rise in Total Offences Against the Person is a result of legislative and system changes to the recording of particular offences within the category. It does not reflect an actual increase in offending.
