Police will be conducting increased high visibility patrols at shopping precincts targeting shoplifting and anti-social behaviours in the lead up to the busy festive season.

Glenorchy Police Inspector Jason Klug said police will be conducting highly visible foot patrols and keeping a look out for known and recidivist shoplifters as part of Operation Swipe.

“Tasmania is a safe place to live, and while the vast majority of us are law abiding citizens, there is a small number of offenders who continue to do the wrong thing in our community, including shoplifting,” Inspector Klug said.

“In the lead up to the busy festive season, police will be conducting increased high visibility patrols at shopping precincts and CBD areas, aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour and crime including shoplifting, drugs and dangerous articles.”

“We’ll be utilising a range of resources, including uniform and plain clothes police, detectives, and police dogs, as well as our Taskforce Saturate team in the South.”

“These patrols are about sending a message to the small percentage of people in our community who choose to do the wrong thing – illegal activities and anti-social behaviours will not be tolerated by police.”

Similar high visibility patrols will be undertaken across CBD areas across the state, including Hobart, Kingston, Bellerive, Launceston, Devonport and Burnie during this period.

Supporting police, Crime Stoppers Tasmania Deputy Chair Ralph Doedens encouraged anyone who witnesses illegal or anti-social behaviour to speak up.

“Everyone has the right to feel safe in our community, and while Tasmania Police are doing everything they can to detect and deter crimes, there is a part we can all play to help them.”

“If you witness illegal or anti-social behaviour you can report it to Tasmania Police on 131 444 or to Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or 1800 333 000.”

“When you contact Crime Stoppers you can stay anonymous – we don’t need your name or personal details, just the information you’re reporting for investigation.”