135 people have been arrested on 388 offences as part of a police operation aimed at preventing and disrupting anti-social behaviour by young people on the Sunshine Coast.
Under the ongoing operation, police have wanded 533 people of all ages and found 17 weapons.
During patrols of Mooloolaba on 18 October, police attempted to stop and wand two teenage boys.
The boys allegedly ran from police but were chased and arrested on Tarcoola Avenue a short time later.
Police located a 16-year-old Alexandra Headland boy in possession of a knife and a 16-year-old Caloundra West boy in possession of a billy club.
The boys were also arrested in relation to allegedly stealing a quantity of alcohol from a shop on Wises Road at Buderim on 15 October.
The 16-year-old Alexandra Headland boy has been charged with one count each of stealing, face masked with intent commit indictable offence, obstruct police officer and possession of a knife in a public place.
The 16-year-old Caloundra West boy has been charged with one count each of stealing, obstruct police officer and possessing restricted items.
Proactive high visibility and covert patrols are continuing to target public transport hubs, shopping centres and areas where young people are known to congregate.
Beyond enforcement, the operation also has a strong focus on engagement with vulnerable children and their families.
Detective Inspector Chris Toohey said the Sunshine Coast Youth Co-Responder Team is an important part of the operation, to partner with families to ensure they are getting the support they need.
“We’re engaging with the youths’ caregivers and encouraging them to know where the child is, what they’re doing, who they’re with, and what they’re carrying,” Detective Inspector Toohey said.
“We can all be part of the solution.
“Police have seen a real change in the community throughout this operation, which targets anti-social behaviour, possession of weapons, and property crime.
“There is also 17 less weapons on the streets, including knives and knuckledusters, with the potential to escalate violence and cause harm.
“The operation is ongoing and will continue to use targeted patrols and investigative strategies to keep the community safe and feeling safe.
Inspector Toohey said people can “expect to be stopped by police in public places”.
The operation will continue into the Christmas school holidays.
