ACT Policing: 24/7 patrols planned as police gear up for Summernats

ACT Policing: 24/7 patrols planned as police gear up for Summernats

ACT Policing is scheduling around-the-clock traffic enforcement patrols of the areas surrounding Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) and additional patrols of the city’s entertainment precincts over the Summernats car festival period beginning today (Thursday, January 7).

Police intend to clamp down rigorously on any irresponsible and/or dangerous driving behaviour and have issued a reminder to all motorists that under ACT legislation, police have the power to seize vehicles for burnouts, menacing driving or street racing on public roadways.

ACTP’s Operational Commander for the event, Superintendent Brett Kidner, said that in keeping with previous arrangements, general security within Exhibition Park during the event would be the responsibility of the Summernats organisers however, police would always stand ready to provide assistance should it be required.

“The public should be aware that for the duration of the event, designated alcohol-free zones have been gazetted in significant parts of Mitchell, Downer, Lyneham, and Watson including Northbourne Avenue, Flemington Road and Aspinall Street. In these areas it is an offence for people to drink alcohol on the street,” Superintendent Kidner said.

“We have lengthy experience and knowledge of the policing issues surrounding major events such as this and will be monitoring potential trouble spots carefully. Officers will be conducting random breath tests and using our RAPID number plate recognition system to identify unlicensed drivers, and unregistered and/or unroadworthy vehicles.

“We have no desire to prevent people from having a good time but the safety of the public is always our primary concern. Police want people to enjoy themselves and each other’s company at Summernats, but those who break the law will end up in the company of our officers,” Supt Kidner added.

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