Bus network staff have been engaged with more than 17,000 times during more than 1,200 operations in a joint bus network safety blitz across the south-east.
Operation Whiskey Course commenced in April 2023, bringing together Queensland Police Service and Translink, to conduct high-visibility patrols at bus hubs across Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Moreton and as of October 2024, Ipswich.
It aims to prevent, disrupt and deter anti-social and criminal behaviour, while supporting the safety of commuters and transport staff.
Between April 2023 and November 2024, police including Railway Squad, the Mounted Unit, Bike Squad and more conducted 1255 patrols and engaged with bus drivers more than 17,772 times.
During these operations and high-visibility patrols police located and seized 417 unlawful weapons.
While 1,436 people were charged in relation to offences including weapons and drugs offences, outstanding warrants, breaches of bail and more.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly said that the safety of commuters is a priority for the QPS.
“With summer school holidays underway we know our transport networks will be as busy as ever, and all commuters and transport staff deserve to move about our state safely,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly said.
“Operation Whiskey Course is conducted on over-time, meaning it’s extra patrols on top of our 24/7 policing efforts, aiming to disrupt and prevent anti-social and criminal behaviour.”
“Police and Translink staff will continue to prioritise high-visibility patrols across south-east busways, and bus hubs to keep our communities safe as they enjoy summer in Queensland.”
| Operation Whiskey Course statistics from April 2023 – 29th November 2024 | |
| Number of bus operations across SEQ (Brisbane North, Brisbane South, Gold Coast, Logan, Moreton, Ipswich) | 1255 |
| Number of weapons seized | 417 |
| Number of people charged as a result of operations | 1436 |
| Number of engagements with bus drivers | 17772 |
