Newly graduated recruits from the AFP College will join ACT Policing’s frontline officers for Operation Unite, which commences tomorrow night (Friday, December 7) across Australia and New Zealand.

Over this coming weekend (December 7-9), police officers from across Australia and New Zealand will support Operation Unite’s key objectives of re-enforcing messages to the community about the harmful effects associated with excessive alcohol consumption as well as targeting alcohol-related crime, violence and anti-social behaviour.   Operational Commander Superintendent Brett Kidner said that Operation Unite has become a key operation for police across Australia and New Zealand as they attempt to change community perceptions and attitudes toward alcohol-related crime, violence and anti-social behaviour.

“Since it commenced a few years ago, Operation Unite has been a very successful initiative.  We want people to go out and have a fun time, enjoy yourself, especially during the festive time, but you don’t have to drink yourself into a visit to the watch house or the hospital.

“Operation Unite will launch ACT Policing’s ‘Safe Summer’ campaign.  The aim of the campaign is to provide the ACT community with education on how to protect themselves and their loved ones from harm this summer.  We will be focussing on key messaging relating to alcohol, drugs, road safety and personal safety,” Superintendent Kidner said.

ACT Policing will be out in force with officers from the Alcohol Crime Targeting Team, Crime Prevention, Traffic Operations, Specialist Response Group and General Duties walking the streets.

Operation Unite commences on Friday night (December 7) and ceases Sunday morning (December 9).