Constable Caitlin Jones with Automated Number Plate Recognition Technology on Old Geelong Rd last Wednesday. 80980 Picture: XAVIER SMERDON
By XAVIER SMERDON
WYNDHAM was in lockdown last week as one of the biggest and most visible police operations ever to be held in the area sent a strong message to violent and dangerous criminals.
Police arrested seven people and searched hundreds more during dual operations last week.
More than 50 extra police were called into the area to take control of the Werribee Train Station under Operation Omni while at the same time setting up roadblocks to detect traffic offences under Operation Lockdown.
The two separate exercises were coordinated as part of Wyndham’s new police Inspector, Cindy Millen’s, first public operation since taking the post earlier this year.
Temporary metal detectors were set up at the train station where police searched everyone for drugs and weapons.
Transit Safety Division Senior Sergeant Wayne Cameron-Smith said the operation aimed to remove weapons from the community and boost safety at the city’s transport hubs.
“People need to be aware that it is illegal to carry a weapon and those who do will be caught and penalised,” Sen Sgt Cameron-Smith said.
“Carrying a weapon is not only illegal, it is also dangerous because there is a good chance that it could be used against you.”
Police conducted 240 searches and arrested three people at the train station, including two for drug offences and one for outstanding warrants.
Six penalty notices were also issued and three weapons were located during the operation.
At the same time Automated Number Plate Recognition technology was set up on Old Geelong Rd near Forsyth Rd and four people were arrested, including two with outstanding warrants and one for offences relating to the handling of stolen goods.
A 30 year-old Hoppers Crossing man was bailed to appear in the Sunshine Magistrates Court at a later date over drug trafficking and weapons offences.
Police also issued 63 infringement notices totalling more than $15,500, including eight for speeding, eight for driving unlicensed and 15 for driving unregistered.
Seven people were caught driving while suspended, three with fake number plates and four talking on mobile phones while driving.
More than 1500 warrants were also executed, recovering more than $454,000 in unpaid fines.
Inspector Cindy Millen said robbery, residential burglary, theft of and from cars and property damage had been identified as areas of high demand in Wyndham.
“We want the community to know that we take these offences very seriously and those who get caught doing the wrong thing will be dealt with accordingly,” Insp Millen said.
“This operation is about sending a clear message to potential offenders that we are here and we will deploy every resource necessary to keep Wyndham’s streets safe for the whole community.”
Inspector Millen said the community could expect similar operations in the future.
