Tasmania Police’s Hobart CBD taskforce is delivering strong results, combatting antisocial and criminal behaviour in the city centre.

Officer in Charge of Hobart Division, Inspector John Toohey said in just three weeks from 1 May when the taskforce was implemented, 21 people had been arrested, three summons were issued, three infringements were issued, and police gave 44 individuals formal directions to leave the area.

“Of those formal directions, 38 were given to youths,” he said.

“The taskforce means Tasmania Police has officers dedicated to undertaking high-visibility foot-patrols in the Hobart CBD and transport hubs, focusing on detecting offenders, resetting behaviours and keeping all members of the public safe.”

“The type of offences detected since the taskforce began, include stealing, disorderly conduct, breach of bail, failing to comply with the direction of a police officer, abusive language, drug possession, common assault, committing a nuisance and unlawful possession of stolen property.”

“Tasmania Police is committed to protecting the community and local businesses and detecting and preventing anti-social and criminal behaviour with the aim of making our public spaces safer for everyone.”

“Our community deserves to feel safe at home, out in public and in their workplaces,”

“We will continue to target anti-social and criminal behaviour and where appropriate, necessary and authorised by law, we will be charging those who offend, and putting them before a Magistrate.”

Anyone who witnesses illegal or anti-social behaviour should report it to police on 131 444, or triple-zero (000) in an emergency.

Information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at crimestopperstas.com.au. You can stay anonymous.