Operation Whiskey Legion departs Townsville

208 people have been charged with 431 offences in the past seven days as part of a major multi-level operation in Townsville.

Operation Whiskey Legion began in Townsville on 11 September with specialist police from the Highway Patrol, Crime and Intelligence Command, Dog Squad and Crime Prevention working with local police to reduce crime in the area and take tough action against those causing harm to the community.

The additional officers were deployed to Palm Island, Charters Towers, Ayr, Townsville and Ingham, conducting 301 proactive patrols and engaging with 8,390 community members.

A total of 188 adults were arrested on 367 charges, and 20 juveniles were charged with 64 offenses.

On September 16, detectives from Operation Whiskey Legion, including members of Taskforce Argos, executed a search warrant at an address in Stuart, following an ongoing investigation into alleged child exploitation offences.

A 30-year-old man from Moranbah was charged with possessing child pornography, breaching a relevant order, using a conveyance service in preparation to harm or engage in or procure sexual acts with persons under the age of 16, and using the internet to procure children under the age of 16.

He was refused bail and was ordered to appear in Townsville District Court on September 17.

On September 16, officers deployed as part of Operation Whiskey Legion were called to assist Mundingburra police at a location in Aitkenvale after reports of an armed person on Ross River Road.

The 34-year-old man was arrested without incident and charged with causing fear by means of a weapon, possessing a knife in a public place and two charges of possessing dangerous drugs.

He was remanded in custody and appeared in Townsville Local Court on September 17.

Townsville District Chief Inspector Graeme Paine said the district was very pleased with the overall results of the operation.

“We have seen a lot of police activity on the ground here in Townsville with officers supporting frontline police,” said Chief Inspector Graeme Paine.

“By targeting high-risk offenders, saturating hotspots like shopping malls and the Safe Night Precinct, and engaging with local residents, you increase public safety and reduce harm in the community.”

“We are grateful for the support of Operation Whiskey Legion in Townsville, but assure the community that they can expect a continued police presence across the district.”

Since Operation Whiskey Legion began in April, 3,477 people have been charged with 8,738 crimes.

Operation Whiskey Legion continues with varying deployments in areas across Queensland.

Key statistics:

• Police carried out 301 high-profile patrols at busy areas in the district, including shopping malls and public transport stations.
• Officers contacted 155 victims and referred 33 victims.
• A total of 4,002 breath tests and 17 roadside drug tests were administered, with officers issuing 257 tickets.
• Police executed 54 warrants, including 16 search warrants.
• 220 street checks were carried out and officers spoke to 8,390 citizens.