UPDATE: In a dramatic move to combat escalating crime, Wyndham Council in Melbourne has just announced the deployment of private security patrols across the area, effective November 10, 2023. This unprecedented action comes as residents express heightened fears over a significant rise in local crime, with more than 15 arrests reported during the recent Halloween weekend alone.
Authorities confirm that crime rates in Victoria have surged, with reported offences climbing by 15.7% over the past year, and property-related crimes—especially car thefts—soaring by nearly 40%. The Truganina suburb will be the first to see these nightly patrols, running from 10 PM to 6 AM, as part of a six-month trial aimed at enhancing community safety.
Local leaders are facing mounting pressure to respond to the crime wave, which has seen a marked increase in violent incidents and gang activity. Mark Josem, a local father, shared his concerns with Yahoo News, stating, “If you were to stand on a Melbourne street and interview 100 people, 99 would be able to tell you a story about crime affecting them.”
The council’s security initiative comes after troubling reports from Melbourne’s western suburbs, including Melton, where youth gangs have been linked to rising incidents of home invasions and knife-related assaults. Shopping centres have also turned into hotspots for violence, prompting urgent calls for more policing and community safety measures.
As part of the new patrol strategy, uniformed guards will wear body cameras and have vehicles equipped with GPS tracking, ensuring accountability and oversight. However, these private security officers will not be armed. Bemin Ward Councillor Cr Preet Singh emphasized the need to address residents’ safety concerns, stating, “This trial will provide a highly visible presence across public areas, deterring anti-social behaviour.”
The council aims to work collaboratively with Victoria Police and local businesses to foster a safer community environment. Singh noted, “Community safety is a shared responsibility, and this trial is about taking an active, practical step to support safer public spaces.”
In the wake of this alarming crime trend, the Wyndham community is closely watching the trial’s outcome, hopeful that these security measures will bring relief and restore confidence in public safety.
As developments unfold, residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. The outcome of this trial will be critical in shaping future safety protocols across Melbourne’s suburbs.
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