Werribee station targeted in transit operation

The operation, named "Safe Transport for All," was carried out by the Victoria Police in collaboration with Public Transport Victoria (PTV) and other law enforcement agencies on the evening of March 24, 2023. The primary focus of the operation was to address criminal activity at three major public transport interchanges in the western suburbs of Melbourne, specifically Werribee, Footscray, and Sunshine stations.

At Werribee station, fifteen individuals were apprehended for various offenses, including possession of drugs, theft, and assault. Seven weapons were seized during the operation, including knives, machetes, and a replica firearm. The arrests and seizures were a result of intelligence gathered through surveillance and community reporting.

In addition to the arrests and seizures, the police also issued several infringement notices for fare evasion, public drinking, and other minor offenses. The operation aimed to ensure the safety of commuters and deter criminal activity on public transport.

The Victoria Police Senior Sergeant leading the operation, Mark Thompson, stated, "This operation is about sending a clear message that criminal behavior will not be tolerated on our public transport network. We will continue to work with our partners to ensure the safety of commuters and hold offenders accountable for their actions."

The operation was a part of the ongoing efforts by the police to address crime on public transport, following a recent increase in incidents reported at the stations. The police encourage the community to report any suspicious activity or criminal behavior to ensure a safe environment for all commuters.

PTV CEO, Cisco Carrasco, also commented on the operation, stating, "We are committed to working with Victoria Police to ensure the safety of our passengers and staff. This operation is a great example of the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and PTV to address criminal activity on our network."

The operation was a success, with no significant incidents reported during the operation, and the police will continue to conduct similar operations to maintain a safe and secure environment for commuters using the public transport network.