We will be out in force – police

Cops send a warning

ROWDY crowds and a sea of footy fans will not faze Townsville police crews who have reassured the community their priority is still on youth crime, despite State of Origin chaos.

Northern Patrol Group Inspector Damien Crosby said police were well equipped to deal with the revellers heading out for Game One of the series opener on Wednesday night, and still keep an eye on the suburbs.

More police crews will be on hand at Queensland Country Bank Stadium, as well as Flinders St, North Shore and Riverway, where Townsville City Council had planned big outdoor viewing events.

The city will be transformed into a street party with food trucks and a concert featuring big name acts like Jessica Mauboy, Busby Marou and Birds of Tokyo.

Insp Crosby said police were no stranger to events of this size.

“We are very well-practised in these events. We have an excellent working relationship with council and Stadiums Queensland,” he said.

“It’s not unusual for us to manage a sellout crowd for a local Cowboys fixture. We’re very comfortable with our policing response.”

While the excitement over the event was obvious throughout the city, Insp Crosby said the crime issues could not be ignored.

“We appreciate Townsville is still experiencing a lot of concern around property crime and youth crime.

“It’s a big event for Townsville, but can I reassure the public that we are not reducing or diluting our presence in the suburbs.

“We’re still going to have a very strong focus and priority on combating property crime.”

This year, police have charged 413 people with more than 1400 offences in Operation Tango Pheasant.

Insp Crosby said police would also help out at the “tent city” set up at Murray Sports Complex.

He encouraged those attending the game to have a plan before heading out, warning that increased RBTS would be on the roads.

“We encourage everyone coming into the CBD to have a plan on how you intend getting here and how you intend getting home. You will need to be patient.

“It’s possible there will be some minor delays, particularly before and after the main game.

“Please, take responsibility for the security of your dwelling and your personal belongings and your motor vehicles.”