Police from the Mid North Coast are aware of the community concerns following an increased number of break and enters in the region in recent weeks.
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In response to the growing concerns, the Mid North Coast Police District has initiated targeted operations in the Kempsey area, including search warrants.
The Mid North Coast Police Target Action Group has also been tasked to focus on crime in the Kempsey township and surrounding areas.
Since July 1 2018, there have been seven search warrants executed on homes in the Kempsey area directly relating to the distribution of drugs, or locations used to exchange goods suspected of being stolen.
In the same period, police officers have laid more than 68 property-related charges including break, enter and steal, robbery, receiving, car theft and trespass offences.
Thirty-five of those charges have been laid against 27 individuals in connection with break, enter and steal incidents.
Inspector Stuart Campbell from the Mid North Coast Police District said officers in the Kempsey area are working hard to target break and enter crime in the region.
“The police are flat-out here, they’re really working hard to make sure they’re across all of the break and enter offences committed in the area,” he said.
A concern for officers is that many of the offences are occurring at night, sometimes while the family is at home.
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Indications show that many of these crimes are committed to raise funds to buy drugs, which is why police have issued a multi-layered response including the active targeting of those distributing illicit drugs.
As well as targeting dealers, police are also urging the community through public messaging to be situationally aware and ensure they take basic precautions around their homes.
“There has been a spike in break and enters in Kempsey and surrounding areas. We urge residents to be vigilant, lock doors and windows and also lock their vehicles,” Insp Campbell said.
Investigators believe there are people within the Kempsey and surrounding community who are aware of the crimes and the criminal behaviour.
Police are appealing for anyone with any information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800-333-000.
