Police operation targets crime and anti-social behaviour at Noarlunga Centre

The operation was conducted between 10am and 9pm on Thursday 27 August, involving police officers from Southern District, Dog Operations Unit, Mounted Operations, Licensing Enforcement Branch, Traffic Services Branch and Public Transport Safety Section. The operation combined a number of policing strategies and focused on deterring and detecting criminal activity in and around the Noarlunga Centre Interchange, shopping precinct and surrounding areas.

During the operation, police used a range of proactive policing tactics including, drug detection dogs, traffic enforcement, high-visibility patrols and targeted engagement with known offenders.

As a result of the operation:

• 106 people were screened using metal detector wands,
• 38 people were searched following indications by a police drug detection dog,
• Four people were arrested,
• Four people were reported for offences,
• Six expiation notices were issued for general behaviour and controlled substance offences,
• 30 alcotests were conducted, resulting in two low range drink driving detections,
• 22 drivers underwent oral fluid tests, with six drivers returning positive results for methamphetamine, cocaine and/or cannabis,
• Six vehicle defect notices were issued, and
• Six instant losses of licence were imposed.

Notable detections included:

A 28-year-old Christies Beach man was reported after police stopped his Subaru station wagon in the shopping centre car park about 12.30pm. He allegedly drove whilst disqualified and returned a positive oral fluid test for methamphetamine and cocaine. He was issued a three-month instant loss of licence, and his vehicle was impounded for 28 days.

At about 5pm, police arrested a 42-year-old Hackham West woman after she allegedly stole groceries from a store in the shopping centre. Further investigations identified the woman was allegedly breaching home detention bail and was wanted for nine additional bail breaches. She was refused police bail and appeared before the Christies Beach Magistrates Court.

A 49-year-old Adelaide man was arrested after allegedly stealing a bottle of bourbon from a bottle shop. He was charged with theft and granted bail to appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court on 10 September.

A 15-year-old boy from Hackham West was arrested after allegedly causing a disturbance inside the shopping centre and was apprehended following a short foot chase.

Police also detected several drivers allegedly driving with prescribed drugs in their system, including methamphetamine and cocaine. They may receive expiation notices pending forensic analysis of oral fluid samples.

Southern District police will continue to conduct similar operations across the district targeting anti-social behaviour, violent offending, retail theft, drug use and dangerous driving.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious or criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).