NT Police will once again join forces for the fifth time with their interstate and New Zealand counterparts for this weekend’s Operation Unite.

This united Policing operation targets alcohol misuse and associated violence and anti-social behaviour in and around licensed premises.

This weekend’s operation commences on Friday evening, 2 December and concludes on Sunday morning.

It will be the first Operation Unite in the Territory since the introduction of the ‘Banned Drinkers Register’.

It will be run throughout Darwin, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs.

The Territory Operation Commander, Jamie Chalker said Police will be patrolling entertainment precincts and licensed premises ‘keeping people safe’.

“This operation is not about restricting Territorians from having a good time, but raising awareness about risky drinking behaviours.

“Excessive drinking is not an excuse for engaging in anti-social or violent behaviour. 

“Not only could you end up in the watch house but those people arrested for an alcohol related offence could be placed on the Banned Drinkers Register.” Commander Chalker said.

There are currently 1947 people on the Banned Drinkers Register.

During the course of the four previous such Operations in the Territory, the number of persons taken into protective custody were as follows:

December 2009 – 162

September 2010 – 423

December 2010 – 143

May 2011 – 141

Commander Chalker said the Territory Operation will utilise Random Breath Testing stations targeting people who continue to ignore the warning on the dangers of drink driving.

“Police don’t generally announce in advance that there will be significant traffic operations underway but this week, we are.

“There is simply no excuse for drink driving and endangering the lives of everyone else sharing our roads.

“If you are heading out this weekend, plan your trip if you are having a few drinks and don't drink and drive.” Commander Chalker said. 

Media Contact
Katie Fowden
0401 116 540