Police from the property Crime Reduction Unit were out and about last week conducting a covert Operation to target juvenile offending and property crime.

Operation Tellrium was conducted over a four-day period from Thursday to Sunday. Acting Sergeant Janelle Snigg said the Operation was aimed at identifying and arresting property offenders, particularly those operating in the industrial areas of Alice Springs.

"One of the aims of the Operation was to identify vulnerable commercial premises and then provide advice regarding target hardening and crime prevention," A/Sgt Snigg said.

During the course of the Operation juveniles roaming the streets late at night were also targeted.

"Our members worked into the early hours of the morning and we spoke to more than 200 people to gain their bona fides when they were found wandering around late at night. Many of these were juveniles - some as young as 10.

"With the help of the Youth Patrol bus we managed to round up many of these children and get them taken home, but the frustrating thing was many were back on the streets again a short time later," A/Sgt Snigg said.

"I think it's a real concern when children as young as that are wandering around unsupervised at night, though work is continuing in this area through the involvement of other agencies, it is important for parents to know the whereabouts of their children."

Five people were arrested during the course of the Operation and 12 cautions were given.

Police will conduct further special Operations in the next few weeks, again targeting juveniles and property offenders.


Media contact:
Theresa Kuilboer
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