August 24, 2023
One drink-driver – and 12 drug-drivers – were allegedly detected by police during a two-day blitz in the South Burnett region last week.
Highway Patrol and Tactical Crime Squad officers, with the assistance of the Dog Squad, conducted the large-scale traffic operation which resulted in the arrest of 35 people.
“Operation Octagon 2” ran from August 16-18.
A QPS spokesperson said high visibility patrols targeted all criminal offences, not just road-related offences.
Police conducted 1086 roadside breath tests and 45 drug tests, recording one positive (high range drink-driving) for alcohol and 12 positive results for drugs.
Seventeen people were issued with Notices to Appear in court on a total of 21 charges for traffic-related offences including drink-driving, drug-driving and unlicenced driving.
Fourteen people will also face a total of 42 criminal charges, including drug production, possession or supply; escaping lawful custody; weapon possession; possessing property suspected of being stolen; obstructing police and breach of bail.
Sixty-four traffic infringement notices were also issued.
Inspector Scott Stahlhut, from the South Burnett Patrol Group, said this operation was “an example of the continued high visibility and targeted approach to policing in the South Burnett’s Patrol Group”.
“Our number one priority is community safety and well-being, and we make no apologies for that,” Insp Stahlhut said.
“Anyone out there who is engaging in criminal activity should expect to see us anywhere at any time.”
Well done! Just a shame government funding and lack of current police resources doesn’t allow for more heavy presence on a more regular basis. Keeping us safe QPS – thank you.