Residents are out for exercise along the Sydney Harbour in Sydney on Sept 13, 2021 after some relaxations in the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions by the New South Wales state. (SAEED KHAN / AFP)
SYDNEY – In response to a rising number of violent incidents in the Australian state of New South Wales, the state government announced on Monday the formation of a task force targeting criminal networks.
The Taskforce Erebus would seek to examine the circumstances and links between a string of violent events in the state, which include fatal shootings, drug trade and the coordinated theft of vehicles.
Last week two separate shooting incidents saw people in southwest Sydney killed just four days apart. Both incidents were linked to gangs spread out through the state capital
NSW State Crime Commander and Assistant Commissioner Mick Fitzgerald said the task force would draw on expertise and knowledge from across the police force.
"Taskforce Erebus builds on the information and leads already gathered by investigators and ensures they have the resources to keep targeting and putting pressure on these criminal groups on all fronts," he said.
Last week two separate shooting incidents saw people in southwest Sydney killed just four days apart. Both incidents were linked to gangs spread out through the state capital.
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The task force will be led by the State Crime Command, which since October 2021 has already arrested 260 individuals, seized almost 70 firearms and 2.5 million Australian dollars (about $1.74 million), and illicit drugs worth 4 million Australian dollars (about $2.78 million).
"These public acts of violence are dangerous and while they are targeted, regardless of who the victim is, it will not be tolerated. It only takes one stray bullet to injure or kill an innocent person," said Fitzgerald.
Detective Chief Superintendent Darren Bennett urged the public to call the police if they have any information regarding crimes or crime organizations.
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"When it comes to organized crime, investigators are up against a wall of silence (as) those connected to the victims, whether by blood, marriage or as an associate are often unwilling to assist police, due to either misguided loyalties or fear of retribution," he said.
"In order to bring these criminals to justice, we need evidence to put them before the court, and that's where the community can help."