Security cams big benefit to police

A MAN allegedly spotted wielding a knife in the centre of the Cairns CBD is the latest suspect caught by the city’s security eye in the sky.

Police admit they often call on the assistance of the Cairns Regional Council’s CCTV operators multiple times a day to track offenders, diffuse incidents or prevent them before they start.

In this latest incident, a 22year-old Bayview Heights man was arrested by officers early yesterday after allegedly being spotted with a knife.

A nightclub bouncer is believed to have spotted the man, radioing the camera operators who contacted police.

Cairns City Beat Sen-Sgt Gary Hunter said the system was invaluable.

“We would speak to them daily and on occasion it can be several times throughout a 24hour period,” he said.

“Many of the people who commit offences in the CBD are located by police as a result of the CCTV operators.

“What they provide us is an investigative tool that gives another avenue for police to detect and solve crime.”

He said it was the eagle eyes of the camera operators who led police to two alleged drug dealers this month.

The pair were allegedly spotted on camera standing outside a Shields St nightclub, distributing bags of cannabis and collecting cash from customers.

They have been charged with drug supply and possession respectively.

Sen-Sgt Hunter said the cameras were particularly good value over the busier holiday period.

“It’s an excellent tool to assist police in the festive time of year when people are indulging in alcohol and other substances,” he said.

The alleged knife carrier was arrested on Shields St about 1.50am yesterday.

He has been charged with unlawful possession of a weapon and is scheduled to appear at the Cairns Magistrates Court on January 14.