The McGowan Government has launched phase three of its highly successful Operation Heat Shield summer crime blitz to provide increased police patrols over the summer months.
The $3.5 million in additional funding will allow police to boost the number of shifts and proactive patrols by an additional 38,500 operational policing hours between December and March.
Police Minister Paul Papalia and Deputy Police Commissioner Gary Dreibergs announced the operation in Northbridge today – one of a number of key hot spots and entertainment precincts to be saturated with police as part of the operation.
In addition to the significantly increased proactive police patrols, Operation Heat Shield allows police to run co-ordinated and targeted operations to take perpetrators of burglary, theft and violent offences out of commission.
More mounted police, canine unit, bike and beat patrols in and around entertainment and transport precincts will be part of the blitz to deter anti-social behaviour and provide reassurance to the public.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“We know historically that crime rates rise during our warmer months.
“This funding will allow police to boost patrols in major precincts and hot spots to deter and rapidly respond to incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour.
“This high visibility policing presence will result in greater confidence for local businesses and a greater sense of security for people making the most of our summer months.”
As stated by Police Minister Paul Papalia:
“Operation Heat Shield 3 provides increased operational capacity to tackle the forecast rise in crime rates expected during the summer period.
“It means more frontline officers will be on hand during this period to provide a stronger police presence in our entertainment precincts, and shopping and transport hubs.
“The summer period and festive months are a time for all Western Australians to enjoy and Operation Heat Shield will ensure an increased police presence on the streets to help keep Western Australians safe.”
