Tasmania Police’s Taskforce Viper has achieved significant results in Launceston – detecting offenders and making the community safer.

“To combat crime and anti-social behaviour in Northern Tasmania, Taskforce Viper was established in January 2023 with a dedicated 6-member crew focused on detecting offenders and making the community safer,” said Inspector Nathan Johnston.

“In less than two months, the dedicated 6-member taskforce charged 103 people with 430 offences.”

Offences laid by Taskforce Viper include:

• Stealing x 78
• Drug related charges x 82
• Firearm related charges x 33
• Breach of Bail x 42
• Aggravated carjacking x 2
• Possession of stolen property x 18
• Motor Vehicle Stealing x 17
• Fraud x 10
• Burglary x 7
• Aggravated burglary (dwelling) x 7
• Assault x 9
• Offences against police x 24
• Disqualified / Suspended Driver x 18
• Unlicensed Driver x 8
• Evade Police x 3
• Drink Driving x 1
• Drug Driving x 4

“Through good police work and with a commitment to reducing the impact of crime on the Northern Tasmanian community, Taskforce Viper has achieved significant results,” said Inspector Johnston.

“Police will continue to do everything they can to keep the community safe and prevent and detect crime, but we need the community’s help.

“It’s timely to remind everyone of the importance of protecting your belongings from burglary and theft. Thieves are often opportunistic and locking your property and keeping valuables out of sight are two easy steps that can prevent your belongings from being a target for burglars.”