Police across regional New South Wales will be focusing on venue COVID-Safety compliance and alcohol-related crime as officers commence Operation Pariac this weekend.
Operation Pariac is a high-visibility operation regularly conducted by general duties and specialist licensing police in the Northern, Southern and Western regions, targeting alcohol-related crime, anti-social behaviour, public order incidents and assaults.
In 2020, the operation has broadened to include compliance around current Public Health Order conditions, relative to the easing of restrictions in licensed premises.
Officers in regional NSW will be undertaking Operation Pariac on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 December 2020 to ensure venues and patrons are aware of their responsibilities to maintain a COVID-safe environment as restrictions continue to ease.
Northern Region Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Chad Gillies, said it's a good reminder for those intending to visit pubs and clubs this summer period.
"Thousands of families are preparing to travel across the state as children finish up what has been a challenging school year for most.
"Many will be chasing the sun and warmth in Northern NSW which will mean an increase in patronage at our licensed venues – our local licensees need to make sure they are following all necessary COVID-protocols and are adhering to the current restrictions.
"The Public Health Orders relating to venue capacities and socialising were eased at the beginning of the week, so we encourage all licensees and venue owners to update their COVID-Safe plans and brush up on what is now permitted."
Southern Region Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Condon, said additional police will be tasked to patrol licensed venues throughout the weekend.
"The public should expect to see a highly-visible police presence this weekend and throughout the summer months," Acting Assistant Commissioner Condon said.
"We certainly want people to enjoy themselves and everything that our region has to offer, but in a responsible and considerate manner.
"Everything we do as police is in the best interests of the community. We are coming down hard on those who are refusing to follow the rules like everyone else."
Western Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie APM, said officers will be ensuring there's the continued focus on anti-social behaviour and alcohol-fuelled violence as with all previous Operation Pariac's, wanting the public to feel reassured when they're out and about.
"Officers throughout regional NSW will continue to work closely with industry and business owners to guarantee they are able to operate safe environments for their customers, while making the public feel confident about heading out."
Anyone with information about alcohol-related crime or who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
