Authorities have hosed down fears that CCTV cameras installed to improve public safety in central Sunbury are not operating or being properly monitored.
Twenty cameras were switched on in April last year in a bid to deter would-be offenders and help solve crimes.
Sunbury police’s Senior Sergeant Tim Douglas said the 24-hour cameras were an important tool that had already aided many investigations.
‘‘If there’s a crime, detectives go back to the footage and use it to help with their investigation. They’ve certainly proved their worth.’’
Footage has led to arrests in a range of cases, including assault and hooning offences.
Senior Sergeant Douglas said cameras also made the community feel at ease.
‘‘We’ve found they’ve gone a long way to enhancing people’s perceptions of safety,’’ he said.
Hume city communities director Margarita Caddick said the cameras had been operating since the system was installed, following concerns raised by some residents that the camera coverage was faulty.
‘‘However, the system relies upon a wi-fi connection and at times the signal can drop out temporarily from some of the cameras.’’
Sunbury Business Association president Michael Osborne said the project had been a great success.
‘‘There’s no doubt arrests have been made possible,’’ he said. ‘‘They are crucial to helping police pinpoint offences.’’
Cameras are located at the Brook and Evans streets intersection, Brook Street newsagency, Evans Arcade, O’Shannassy Street and at the corner of Evans Street and Gap Road.
