Victoria Police has launched a new tactical and investigative unit to prevent, deter, detect, disrupt and dismantle the criminal activities of groups such as outlaw motorcycle gangs, organised crime networks and street gangs across the state.
Known as the VIPER [visibility, intelligence, prevention, enforcement and reassurance] Taskforce, the taskforce would commence duty on Monday, July 4 and involve an initial deployment of 80 officers.
The multi-discipline team has brought together detectives, general duties police, intelligence officers and members of the Public Order Response Team, with support from specialised road policing members.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said the taskforce’s work would involve a range of enforcement and prevention actions with the flexibility to be deployed anywhere in the state at short notice.
“We want to create the most hostile environment for organised crime in Victoria and we make no apologies for that,” he said.
“The VIPER Taskforce will increase the pressure on these criminal groups through a range of enforcement activities designed to hold them to account.”
Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said the taskforce would proactively target criminals including those involved in incidents, such as homicides and shootings.
“As the nature of organised crime continues to evolve, we know we have to be agile and change the way we confront these groups,” he said.
“I have no doubt the VIPER Taskforce will significantly enhance our ability to proactively target, disrupt and dismantle organised crime.
“This is one of the most significant, coordinated and proactive moves against organised crime syndicates in Victoria Police’s history and I expect there will be immediate results when it comes to community safety.”
Anyone with information about serious and organised crime activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
