Blitz Curbs South Burnett Crime

In a recent week-long operation named Operation Martello, Darling Downs District police, along with various specialist units, have made significant strides against crime in the South Burnett area. The operation, which took place from December 8 to 14, resulted in 49 arrests and the charging of these individuals with a total of 202 criminal offenses.

Operation Martello focused on saturating known crime hotspots in the region, targeting offenses ranging from the unlawful use of motor vehicles to drug and traffic violations. The collaborative effort included personnel from the State Flying Squad, tactical crime squads, local criminal and child protection investigation units, and highway patrol teams from Darling Downs.

The initiative also included proactive measures such as knife wanding, high-visibility patrols, and vehicle stops to enhance community safety. Throughout the operation, police conducted six search warrants, 23 knife wanding operations, and 68 street checks. Additionally, 17 Traffic Infringement Notices and 17 random drug tests were issued, with six individuals testing positive for drug use.

Highlighting the operation’s successes, on December 12, a significant apprehension was made along the Bunya Highway at Tingoora where a 46-year-old woman was charged with drug driving. The following days saw further notable arrests including a 16-year-old charged with 17 offenses related to vehicle theft and burglary, and two men apprehended following a carjacking incident in Acacia Ridge.

Superintendent Doug McDonald of the Darling Downs District expressed satisfaction with the operation’s impact on local crime rates and stressed the ongoing commitment to community safety. Southern Region Assistant Commissioner Matthew Vanderbyl echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the police’s relentless efforts to combat crime and their readiness to respond to any threats within the community.

The Queensland Police urge the public to continue cooperating by reporting any suspicious activities and assure them of their dedication to ensuring safety and security in the region.