Police have issued a further 28 Penalty Infringement Notices and a prohibition order following a gathering in Sydney's west at the weekend.
Just before 7.30pm on Sunday (22 August 2021), officers from Blacktown Police Area Command attended a premises on Fourth Avenue, Blacktown, following reports to Crime Stoppers of a gathering in breach of the Public Health Orders.
Police arrived and located a group of approximately 60 adults and children inside the building, participating in a sermon.
Additional police attended to assist and the details of those at the location were obtained, before the group were dispersed and directed to return home.
Inquiries revealed there was no QR code present at the entry to the building and those in attendance were from various other LGAs including Canterbury-Bankstown, Fairfield and Liverpool.
Thirty adults were issued $1000 Penalty Infringement Notices for fail to comply with noticed direction re s7/8/9 – COVID-19 and the organisation was issued a $5000 PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction – Corporation.
Following further inquiries, police issued 27 $500 PINs to the same attendees for failure to comply with a direction to wear or carry a mask.
A prohibition order was also served on the pastor about 6am today (Wednesday 25 August 2021), which prevents the church from operating for a seven-day period.
He was also issued a $500 PIN as he was not wearing a mask while in a public place.
Inquiries continue.
Police continue to appeal to the community to report suspected breaches of any public health order or behaviour which may impact on the health and safety of the community by contacting Crime Stoppers: on 1800 333 000 or via https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
