UPDATE: Authorities in Kununurra, Western Australia, are responding urgently to a surge in youth crime, with police deploying additional officers to combat the alarming trend. Just hours ago, Police Commissioner Col Blanch addressed the community, revealing that children as young as 10 years old are involved in a spate of car thefts, with a vehicle being stolen every day this month.
At a careers expo at the WA Police Academy in Joondalup, Blanch acknowledged a recent “flare-up” of crime, which has seen local youths engaging in dangerous behavior, including chasing police. “We’re not soft on crime, we’re tough on crime,” Blanch stated, assuring residents that police are actively arresting those responsible. He emphasized that authorities have apprehended every individual involved in crime recently, despite claims of a larger crime wave.
The situation escalated over the weekend, prompting police to intensify their presence in the Kimberley region. Authorities report that a significant number of car thefts involve repeat juvenile offenders, highlighting a troubling trend. One young offender was arrested twice in just two nights for his involvement in multiple vehicle thefts.
Police Minister Reece Whitby weighed in, urging parents to take responsibility for their children. “The whole community has a role here,” he stressed, calling for greater parental involvement. “Where are your kids?” he asked, underscoring the need for families to engage more actively in their children’s lives.
Residents have expressed mounting frustration on social media, sharing tips on how to protect their property from vandalism and theft. Whitby acknowledged the community’s valid concerns, stating, “When you are in the thick of a situation like this, yes, you feel anger, you feel frustration, you feel anxiety.” He reassured citizens that the state’s government has invested multi-millions of dollars into policing efforts, reinforcing the notion that crime rates are actually declining in the broader region.
Despite these reassurances, the emotional toll on the community is palpable. “This is complex. These are young children,” Whitby said. “They need services. They need support. They need parental responsibility.” As police continue to address these critical issues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of Kununurra’s residents.
Authorities remain on high alert as they tackle this urgent crisis. The community is advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided to keep residents informed and engaged.
