By Cameron Weston
POLICE divisional vans are being diverted from patrols in Hobsons Bay to cover shortfalls in Wyndham as police there try to curb recent gang violence and hoon behaviour.
Inspector Michael Millan from Altona North Police last week confirmed that two weekly divisional van patrols were being redeployed in Werribee, an arrangement he said could last several months.
“What I have asked for is to have one less unit on the road on two of what are normally our quietest shifts, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings,” he said.
“The district will still have a response capability for these two shifts, and I don’t believe this action in any way compromises the safety of Hobsons Bay residents.
“I can assure residents that if they need police at these times, they’ll still be there.”
However, Police Association Secretary Paul Mullet condemned the move, claiming it was little more than a “band-aid solution” which would be detrimental to police and residents in Hobsons Bay.
“Removing the divisional van from Altona North and Williamstown is taking away a vital policing presence from the local community,” he said.
Insp Millan said the redeployment was in response to “recent problems in Werribee”, including a gang-related brawl in which police members were injured.
“We believe we need to do what we can to support the Werribee members and this sort of thing is not at all unusual,” he said.
“When issues arise like this we try to share our resources to the best advantage.”
Insp Millan said the extra patrols would be scheduled for Friday and Saturday nights – two of the busiest shifts for Werribee police.
Mr Mullet said chronic shortages in staff and equipment resources at Werribee Police had left them able to provide only “a purely reactive service”.
“Our members in the region have been unable to provide the proactive policing presence the community needs,” he said.
“This situation will not change unless shortage is addressed and additional resources are provided.”
Senior Sergeant Glenn Mayne of the Werribee Police said about six to eight vehicles, each with two police officers, were being added to Wyndham’s current roster during weekend peak times.
He said extra patrols would be drawn from as far away as Ballarat, and would be specifically targeting anti-social behaviour including drink drivers and underage drinking.
“We’ll be sending a message to the community that we will have a low tolerance of anti social behaviour,” Sen Sgt Mayne said.
“We’ll have a higher visible presence on weekends with a view to encourage people to enjoy themselves, but we’ll be very intolerant of those committing offences.”
