Clamp-down quells precinct violence

GREATER Dandenong Council has declared a two-week trial of extra security measures at Dandenong Civic Centre a success.
Jody Bosman, the council’s city planning, design and amenity director, reported “no further significant incidents” during the trial – which included extra highly-visible guards and police patrols in the civic and library precinct.
There had been mounting concern over rising mob violence in the precinct including a mass brawl in the civic square and a stabbing and assault nearby last month.
“Council and Victoria Police have worked in close partnership to ensure no further incidents would occur,” Mr Bosman said.
“That partnership has been very successful, with no further significant incidents being reported.”
The council would continue to work closely with police “to ensure inappropriate behaviour and/or criminal acitivity is kept to an absolute minimum in public areas of the municipality”.
He said the council did not disclose security arrangement details at any of its facilities “as that may compromise the effectiveness of those arrangements”.
– CAM LUCADOU-WELLS