Operation Yankee Forge Nets 121

In a significant clampdown on crime in Far North Queensland, over 121 individuals have been charged with a total of 425 offenses as part of Operation Yankee Forge. The operation, spearheaded by Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing APM, was launched on February 27 in Cairns, aiming to enhance the visibility of police patrols and target high-harm criminal activities in the region.

The focus of this extensive operation has been on combating unlawful use, robbery, and unlawful entry offenses. A notable success story from the operation includes the arrest of a 14-year-old boy from Gordonvale, who was apprehended by Police Dog Duke and his handler in Mooroobool bushland. The arrest followed the theft of a Toyota Prius from an Earlville shopping center. The minor is charged with two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and is slated to appear in Cairns Children’s Court.

Further arrests underscore the operation’s broad scope. On March 1, an 18-year-old man was detained for his involvement in multiple vehicle thefts and other crimes across several localities including Kewarra Beach and Trinity Beach. He faces charges including four counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two counts of stealing, and other related offenses. Additionally, three teenagers were arrested on March 8 by the Tactical Crime Squad following the theft of a Hyundai i30, with charges ranging from unlawful use of a motor vehicle to possession of dangerous drugs.

Detective Inspector Kevin Goan highlighted the operation as an extension of ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to curb vehicle theft and property crimes. “Our personnel are deeply embedded in their communities, striving to ensure safety and security for all residents,” stated Goan. He emphasized the continuation of both high-visibility and covert operations to reduce the incidence of crime in the region.

Operation Yankee Forge is a testament to the Queensland Police’s commitment to maintaining law and order in Far North, with ongoing investigations and community engagement initiatives aimed at further reducing crime rates.