Following the most significant security operation the Northern Territory has ever experienced, NT Police Commissioner John McRoberts today thanked the Territory community and all those involved who ensured the visit went according to plan.
“The Northern Territory Police had a short time to coordinate, plan and implement this security operation.
"Admittedly, much of that time, we were a little sceptical the visit would actually occur as has been experienced on a number of occasions by our interstate colleagues.
“Tight management of security arrangements and motorcade planning is also essential to ensure no elements are compromised which would also result in the cancellation of such a visit.
“However, the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama indeed made history yesterday when he landed in Darwin.
“NT Police had carriage of the security operation, led by Assistant Commissioner Grahame Kelly who did an excellent job and continues to coordinate the ‘hot debriefs’ today.
“450 NT Police, almost 200 Interstate Police, approximately 150 Australian Defence Force personnel, the US Secret Service and a huge contingent of civilian employees from across both Government and non government were involved.
“To put that into perspective, I’d estimate there was one security person per 1000 head of Darwin population.
“This Operation has included unprecedented intelligence gathering, surveillance, planning, logistics, motorcade and venue security, investigators, about 100 Police vehicles, Mounted Police and the Dog Operations Unit – just to mention a few.
“I appreciate there was some disappointment that the event in Darwin wasn’t open to the public.
“This was an announcement by the White House itself and one which did take us by surprise and took some time for the Police to adjust plans to further accommodate from a security perspective.
"However, the Police on the ground have commended the community who were extremely supportive and patient while they undertook their duties yesterday." Police Commissioner John McRoberts concluded.
