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David Crisafulli MP

Police surge restoring safety in FNQ

The Queensland Government is delivering safety in Far North Queensland, with more than 1,100 offenders arrested as part of an unprecedented surge operation across the region.

Since the major crime crackdown started in August, 1,121 people, including 302 youth, have been charged with more than 3,710 offences, including robbery, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and breaching bail.

The police surge is just one of the ways the Queensland Government is making the Far North safer, with additional resources like the State Flying Squad working with local police to restore safety where you live.

The Queensland Government is giving police the resources they need to make Queensland safer and reduce victims of crime.

As part of this latest crackdown, police conducted more than 4,695 wandings as part of Jack’s Law, which resulted in the seizure of 48 weapons in Cairns.

Local police, supported by specialist squads, also focused on proactive policing to prevent crime, by patrolling hotspots and engaging with businesses in the CBD.

The crime crackdown is part of the Queensland Government’s plan to boost boots on the ground and restoring consequences for actions through the Making Queensland Safer laws.

Premier David Crisafulli said the Queensland Government was delivering a fresh start for Queenslanders, exactly as promised.

“We are making the Far North safer through the high-visibility, high-impact surge of police resources with Adult Crime, Adult Time, early intervention and rehabilitation,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“This shows what happens when you back police with the strong laws and resources they need.

“While we are seeing crime down and victim numbers down, there is much more to be done to make Queensland safer, and we remain committed to delivering the fresh start we promised.”

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the Queensland Government has delivered more than 105 new police recruits to the frontline in the Far North police district, including nearly 50 in the Cairns region alone.

“Queensland Police have a government that gives them the back-up they need,” Minister Purdie said.

“We have grown the front line by more than 450.”

Member for Barron River Bree James said the local police frontline had been bolstered to help make the region safer.

“Under the Queensland Government offenders are being caught, victims are better supported, and communities becoming safer,” Ms James said.

Member for Mulgrave Terry James said the Queensland Government was working hard to make the Far North safer and this surge was proof.

“No matter where you live, everyone deserves to be safe, safe in your community and safe in your home – I'm proud to be part of a Government that is restoring that,” Mr James said.

Member for Cook David Kempton said the crime crackdown was making the Far North safer for families.

“We told Queenslanders we’d tackle the Crime Crisis and the Queensland Government is seeing it through,” Mr Kempton said.