POLICE have targeted venues that allow drunk patrons or smoking inside during a liquor licensing blitz expected to go through the Christmas period.
Police began Operation Virago 1 on the weekend of December 7, targeting venues that were in breach of their liquor licences.
The operation, conducted by police units from Dandenong and Springvale, included visits to nine pubs or clubs.
Detective Senior Constable Nick Lamb of Dandenong police deemed the operation a success.
“A number of licensee breaches were identified,” he said. “[Offences included] breach of licence conditions, smokers in licensed venues, security not carrying identification, intoxicated patrons and insufficient security.
“Offences were not detected at every venue.”
Senior Constable Lamb said night-time police visits would continue throughout the summer.
“We expect the licensees will conduct their businesses [in a manner that is] required as per their licence conditions.”
Last week, Victoria Police released figures that showed Dandenong as the second-biggest trouble spot in the state for alcohol-fuelled crime and violence, behind the CBD.
In the year to June 30, police handed out 214 ‘banning notices’ to the drunk and disorderly in Dandenong. The notices prohibit troublemakers from a designated area or licensed premises for up to 72 hours.
—David Schout
